A Night of Deep Sleep is Within Reach
Sleep apnea is a common breathing disorder that can disrupt sleep. It is often accompanied by snoring, and it causes the soft tissue in the back of the mouth to partially or fully cover the airway throughout the night.
Breathing is paused or becomes shallow, which shifts you out of deep sleep and into a light, less restful sleep. While this condition affects many people, it can be detrimental to rest levels and should be taken seriously.
Dr. Stacey Hall works with patients experiencing sleep apnea symptoms or being diagnosed with sleep apnea. She may notice the signs of a possible sleep-related problem during your routine dental exam and recommend a sleep study with a qualified physician. Diagnosing and treating sleep apnea and other sleep-disordered breathing problems is important for overall health and wellness.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Recognizing the signs of a sleep disorder and seeking treatment is the key to resolving issues and improving your quality of life. Common signs of sleep apnea can include:
- Loud snoring or gasping for air when sleeping
- Feeling sleepy or foggy during the day despite a “full night’s sleep”
- Changes in your daily mood, increasing agitation
- Dry mouth in the morning
- Difficulty concentrating on tasks
While many of these symptoms can also be caused by other medical problems, it is important to seek the advice of a professional to determine the cause.
Treating Sleep Apnea with Oral Appliance Therapy
The CPAP is still the “gold standard of treatment for sleep apnea and is necessary for those with severe symptoms. However, oral appliance therapy can be the perfect solution for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or anyone intolerant of CPAP.
Dr. Hall works with patients who need a sleep appliance to find the best option and monitor their symptoms over time. Fortunately, with various sleep apnea oral appliances on the market, sleepless nights no longer have to be an issue.
Williamsburg Center for Dental Health offers the SomnoDent® MAS, a custom-made device comprising upper and lower dental plates with a unique patented fin-coupling component that allows for normal mouth function. This comfortable, easy-to-use device is similar to an athletic mouthguard designed to hold your lower jaw forward while you sleep.
The appliance tightens the muscles of the upper airway to allow easier breathing. Additionally, it is very discreet and allows you to close your lips around it naturally. No clunky, uncomfortable devices or noisy machines—the SomnoDent® MAS is the barely-there mouthpiece that can finally get you back to sleeping without disruptions.
If breathing disruptions affect the quality of your sleep, schedule an appointment with us today to discuss whether your snoring could indicate sleep apnea. We can help you find a simple solution and get you back to a good night’s sleep quickly.
Sleep Apnea FAQs
Sleep apnea is more than just snoring. It can have serious health impacts. Read the answers to these commonly asked patient questions.
Are oral appliances comfortable to wear?
Most patients find oral appliances comfortable after a short adjustment period, typically a few days to weeks. The devices are custom-fitted to your teeth and jaw, reducing bulkiness and irritation. Some may experience temporary jaw stiffness or tooth pressure, which usually resolves as the mouth adapts. Dr. Hall can make adjustments to improve comfort and fit if needed.
How long does an oral appliance last?
Most oral appliances last 3 to 5 years with proper care, though some may need replacement sooner due to wear or changes in dental structure. Over time, the plastic may degrade, or teeth shifting may affect fit. Regular dental visits help assess whether adjustments or a new device are needed. Investing in a high-quality custom appliance ensures durability.
How do I know if my oral appliance is working?
Signs of success include reduced snoring, improved daytime alertness, and fewer nighttime awakenings. A follow-up sleep study or home sleep test can confirm improved airflow and oxygen levels. Your bed partner’s observations and symptom tracking also help assess effectiveness. If symptoms persist, Dr. Hall may adjust the device or recommend alternative treatments.
Can children use oral appliances for sleep apnea?
Oral appliances are generally not recommended for growing children because they can affect jaw development. Pediatric sleep apnea is often treated with orthodontic expansion, tonsil/adenoid removal, or CPAP. In rare cases, a modified appliance may be used for teenagers under close supervision by a specialist.
How soon will I notice improvements after starting oral appliance therapy?
Most patients report better sleep quality and reduced snoring within the first week of consistent use. Daytime sleepiness typically improves within 2-4 weeks as your body adjusts to proper breathing patterns. Maximum benefits for apnea reduction usually occur after the device has been properly adjusted to your optimal jaw position, which may take several follow-up visits. Keeping a sleep diary helps track your progress objectively.
Can weight loss eliminate the need for an oral appliance?
While weight loss can improve sleep apnea symptoms, it doesn’t always cure the condition completely. Even after significant weight reduction, many patients still need oral appliances because sleep apnea involves anatomical factors like jaw structure and airway shape. However, combining weight management with oral appliance therapy often provides the best results.