Snore Guards & Sleep Apnea Treatment

Snoring can be more than an occasional nighttime disturbance. In some people, it may be associated with obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep-related breathing disorder in which the airway repeatedly becomes blocked or narrowed during sleep.

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At MacArthur Dental Arts in Irvine, CA, your dentist can discuss snoring and sleep-related breathing concerns and determine whether a dental sleep appliance may be appropriate as part of your care.

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What Is Sleep Apnea?

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Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition in which the upper airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, interrupting normal breathing and affecting sleep quality. Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, and snoring alone cannot establish a diagnosis.

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• Loud or frequent snoring
• Pauses in breathing during sleep
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Morning headaches
• Dry mouth upon waking
• Daytime sleepiness or difficulty concentrating

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Signs You May Need a Sleep Apnea Evaluation

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• Snoring loudly and regularly
• Being told you stop breathing during sleep
• Waking up gasping or choking
• Feeling excessively sleepy during the day
• Waking with frequent headaches or persistent dry mouth
• Not feeling rested despite a full night's sleep

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A sleep study may be recommended to determine whether sleep apnea is present. Dental treatment does not replace medical evaluation or diagnosis, so sleep apnea should be properly diagnosed before an appliance is selected.

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Oral Appliance Therapy

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An oral appliance is a removable dental device worn during sleep that works by repositioning the lower jaw or tongue to help maintain a more open upper airway. Oral appliance therapy may be considered for selected patients with obstructive sleep apnea, particularly when recommended following appropriate evaluation. Your dentist will assess your teeth, jaw, bite, and oral health before determining whether an appliance is suitable, and will coordinate with your physician or a sleep specialist as needed.

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Oral Appliances vs. CPAP

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Continuous positive airway pressure, commonly called CPAP, uses a machine and mask to provide a continuous flow of air during sleep. Oral appliances are worn inside the mouth and work differently. Neither treatment is automatically appropriate for every patient, the right approach depends on the type and severity of your sleep apnea, medical history, treatment preferences, and your provider's recommendations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Does everyone who snores have sleep apnea?

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No. Snoring can occur without sleep apnea. However, loud or frequent snoring can be one of the symptoms associated with obstructive sleep apnea and should be evaluated when other symptoms are present.

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Can a dentist diagnose sleep apnea?

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A dentist can identify signs that may warrant further evaluation and provide dental assessment for oral appliance therapy. A medical or sleep professional is typically involved in diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea.

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Is an oral appliance the same as a night guard?

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No. A night guard is generally designed to protect teeth from grinding or clenching, while an oral appliance for sleep apnea is designed to help manage airway obstruction during sleep.

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Can I use an oral appliance instead of CPAP?

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An oral appliance may be an alternative for some patients, but it is not appropriate for everyone. The choice depends on your diagnosis, severity of sleep apnea, and your healthcare providers' recommendations.

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How long does it take to get used to an oral appliance?

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Adjustment varies between patients. Some people adapt relatively quickly, while others need more time. Your dentist can make adjustments if you experience persistent discomfort.

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Schedule a Consultation

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Contact MacArthur Dental Arts at (949) 251-8544 to schedule a sleep apnea or snoring consultation in Irvine, CA.