Who Could Benefit from Oral Appliance Treatment?
Most patients with sleep apnea are great candidates for oral appliance therapy, though a consultation with our doctor is the best way to confirm. There’s a good chance you’ll benefit from treatment if:
- You’ve received a formal diagnosis of mild or moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
- You’ve tried a CPAP machine but found it uncomfortable or ineffective.
- You experience loud snoring and want to reduce your risk of developing sleep apnea.
Why These Patients Tend to Do Well
Oral appliances work by gently repositioning the jaw to keep the airway open, which is especially effective for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Patients who’ve struggled with CPAP’s mask, hose, and noise often find the switch to a quiet, custom-fit appliance makes it far easier to stay consistent with treatment — see our full list of advantages of oral appliance treatment for more detail.
Not Sure If You Qualify?
The best way to find out is a consultation with our doctor, who will review your symptoms and any prior diagnostic testing to confirm whether oral appliance therapy is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Who Benefits from Oral Appliance Treatment
Can I use an oral appliance if I have severe sleep apnea?
Some patients with severe sleep apnea use oral appliance therapy alone, while others benefit more from combined therapy with CPAP. Our doctor will help determine the best approach.
Do I need a formal diagnosis before trying an oral appliance?
A formal diagnosis helps guide treatment, though our doctor can also help coordinate testing if you haven’t been diagnosed yet.
I’ve never tried CPAP — can I still get an oral appliance?
Yes, oral appliance therapy doesn’t require you to have tried CPAP first, especially for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
Can I get an oral appliance if I only snore, without a sleep apnea diagnosis?
Yes, oral appliances can also help with chronic snoring on its own by keeping the airway open during sleep.
What if I’ve had a bad experience with an oral appliance before?
Fit and comfort make a big difference. Our custom digital scanning process is designed to avoid common issues with generic or poorly-fitted appliances.
How do I find out if I’m a good candidate?
Call (386) 253-0115 or request an appointment online to schedule a consultation with our Daytona Beach, FL team.
