Sleep Apnea Treatment
Conyers, GA
Sleep apnea is a serious condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, preventing your body from getting the rest it needs and putting strain on your cardiovascular system over time. While CPAP machines are the most well-known treatment, many patients find them uncomfortable or difficult to use consistently — and that’s where your dentist can help. Oral appliance therapy is a comfortable, non-invasive alternative that uses a custom-fitted mouthguard-like device to gently reposition the jaw and keep the airway open during sleep. It’s quiet, portable, and easy to maintain — making it a popular choice for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who haven’t been able to tolerate CPAP therapy. At our Conyers dental office, we work closely with physicians and sleep specialists to ensure you receive a properly diagnosed and coordinated treatment plan. If you’ve been told you snore, wake up feeling unrested, or have already been diagnosed with sleep apnea, talk to our team about whether oral appliance therapy may be right for you.
Custom-Fitted for Comfort
Every appliance is made specifically for your mouth for a precise, comfortable fit.
Addresses More Than Snoring
Treating sleep apnea protects your long-term cardiovascular and overall health.
Non-Invasive Treatment
No surgery, no machines – just a simple appliance that works while you sleep.
Sleep Apnea Treatment FAQ's
What is obstructive sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the throat relax during sleep, causing the airway to narrow or close completely. This leads to repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night, disrupting sleep quality and reducing oxygen levels in the body.
How does a dentist treat sleep apnea?
Dentists can treat mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea with a custom oral appliance — a device worn during sleep that gently shifts the jaw forward to keep the airway open. It’s a comfortable, non-invasive alternative to CPAP therapy.
Do I need a sleep study before getting an oral appliance?
Yes. A formal diagnosis from a physician or sleep specialist is required before we can provide oral appliance therapy. If you haven’t been evaluated yet, we can help point you in the right direction.
How is an oral appliance different from a CPAP machine?
A CPAP machine uses pressurized air delivered through a mask to keep the airway open. An oral appliance achieves a similar result by repositioning the jaw – without the noise, mask, or tubing. Many patients find oral appliances easier to tolerate and more convenient for travel.
Is oral appliance therapy effective?
For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliances have been shown to be highly effective at reducing symptoms and improving sleep quality. Results vary by individual, which is why proper diagnosis and follow-up with your physician are important.
What are the signs that I might have sleep apnea?
Common signs include loud snoring, waking up gasping or choking, morning headaches, excessive daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and waking up feeling unrested despite a full night of sleep. If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s worth discussing with your doctor.