Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT)

Oral Airway Therapy (OAT) is a non-invasive, customized treatment designed to improve airflow during sleep by addressing airway restrictions.  It is commonly recommended for individuals experiencing:

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Repeated pauses in breathing caused by airway blockage

• Chronic snoring: Often related to narrowed or partially obstructive airways

• Airway-related sleep disturbances: Conditions that prevent restful, restorative sleep

OAT uses a custom-made oral appliance that gently repositions the lower jaw to help keep the airway open, allowing for more consistent and uninterrupted breathing throughout the night. 

Oral Appliance Therapy may be considered for individuals who experience snoring, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), or other air-way related sleep concerns that impact sleep quality and overall health. 

It may be appropriate for individuals who:

• Have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and are sleeking an alternative to CPAP therapy
• Use a CPAP machine but want a more portable, travel-friendly backup option
• Do not have sleep apnea but wish to reduce or eliminate snoring
• Do not have sleep apnea but wish to improve sleep quality

Although Oral Appliance Therapy is provided by a dentist, it is considered a medical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.  As such:

• Coverage is typically aligned with your medical insurance benefits, similar to CPAP therapy
• Dental insurance does not apply to this treatment

We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm your specific coverage.

Your treatment fee convers the complete Oral Appliance Therapy Process:

• Initial Consultation: Comprehensive assessment to determine if OAT is appropriate for you
• Diagnostic Records Appointment: X-rays, digital scans, and measurements required to fabricate your appliance
• Custom Appliance Fabrication: A personalized device designed for comfort and effectiveness
• Delivery Appointment: Fitting of your appliance with instructions for proper use and care
• Monthly Follow-Ups: Ongoing adjustments to optimize effectiveness and comfort typically taking 3-6 months

Every patient's sleep and airway needs are different.

We generally recommend:

• Oral appliances for patients with poor sleep and/or snoring without sleep apnea who wish to manage symptoms better
• Using CPAP therapy as a first-line treatment when prescribed for sleep apnea
• Considering oral appliances if CPAP is not tolerated or is unsuccessful in treating sleep apnea

Oral Appliances may not be suitable for:

• Individuals with central sleep apnea when attempting to treat the apnea itself
• Children, unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider
• Patients with severe obstructed sleep apnea (OSA), unless guided by a physician

Effectiveness can only be determined after completing the full treatment process, including adjustments, follow-up sleep studies, and compliance with treatment. 

A consultation is required to determine whether Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) is an appropriate option for your individual needs.

Short-Term (Common)

• Increased salivation
• Jaw or tooth discomfort
• Dry mouth

These typically resolve within the first few weeks.

Long-Term (Less Common)

• Changes in bite alignment
• Tooth movement
• Jaw or TMJ changes

Regular dental visits help monitor and manage these risks. 

While side effects are usually mild in nature and extremely rare if significant side effects start, immediately stop usage and contact our office

Healthy sleep habits enhance the effectiveness of any sleep therapy:

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
• Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
• Avoid screens 30-60 minutes before bed
• Limit caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol after 2pm or 3-6 hours before sleep
• Use your bed only for sleep
• If you can't sleep after 20 minutes, get up and do a calming activity
• Finish meals 2 hours before bedtime. Water is fine closer to bed time but limited consumption is wise to prevent late night bathroom visits that can disrupt sleep

Take control of your health and sleep better with Oral Appliance Therapy at Brightside Dental Care.  Contact us today to schedule your consultation.  

Your path to better breathing, better sleep, and better health starts here. 

Oral Appliance Therapy is available at select Brightside Dental Care locations.  Our trained clinicians provide personalized care and advanced treatment options designed to support healthier breathing, improved sleep quality, and overall wellness. 

• Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) can be just as effective as CPAP for treating Obstructed Sleep Apnea (OSA), however, just not for as many cases.  Only through trying on the appliance will we know its effectiveness
• It is best suited for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP or are seeking an alternative
• Not all patients are candidates for OAT
• Ongoing monitoring and follow-up are essential
• A consultation is required to determine eligibility

Please note: Brightside Dental Care does not provide obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) diagnoses directly.