Oral Appliance Therapy

Oral appliances are worn in the mouth to treat snoring and OSA. These devices are similar in appearance to orthodontic retainers or sports mouth guards, but are custom-fit by a dental sleep professional.

Oral appliance therapy involves the selection, design, fitting, and use of a custom oral appliance that, when worn during sleep, attempts to maintain an opened unobstructed airway in the throat. Because they are less invasive that CPAP devices, many OSA patients find they are better able to tolerate oral appliances during sleep.

There are many different oral appliances available, and at least 40 have been approved through the FDA for treatment of snoring and/or sleep apnea. Oral appliances may be used alone or in combination with other means of treating OSA. These means include general health, weight management, surgery or CPAP.

Dentists with training in oral appliance therapy are familiar with the various design and application parameters of these devices. They can determine which one is best suited for your specific of the medical team in your diagnosis, treatment and on-going care.

Determination of proper therapy can only be made by joint consultation of your dentist and a sleep medicine physician. Initiation of oral appliance therapy can take from several weeks to several months to complete. Dr Suh utilizes a number of proven oral appliances in his treatment programs, and will select and fit a device based on the individual needs of the patient.Once fitted, our dental team will continue to monitor your treatment and evaluate the response of your teeth and jaws.