Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy for Snoring

What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy uses a custom-fitted device worn during sleep to keep the airway open. This non-invasive sleep apnea treatment is FDA-approved for adults with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and is especially helpful for patients who cannot tolerate or travel easily with CPAP equipment.

Unlike CPAP, which forces air through the airway using pressurized airflow, oral appliances support the airway structurally. They work by gently repositioning the lower jaw or tongue to prevent the airway from collapsing while you sleep. This keeps airflow unobstructed, reducing snoring and helping to maintain healthy oxygen levels throughout the night.

These devices are small, silent, and easy to wear—making them a popular solution for patients who want simplicity and results.

Why Some Patients Struggle with CPAP

CPAP therapy is often prescribed as a first-line treatment for sleep apnea. However, long-term use can be challenging. Many patients find the equipment uncomfortable or disruptive, especially during travel or when trying to sleep in shared spaces.

Common reasons patients stop using CPAP include:

• Feeling claustrophobic wearing a mask
  
• Discomfort from straps, air pressure, or dryness
  
• Noise from the machine disturbing their partner or themselves
  
• Difficulty sleeping in certain positions
  
• Trouble bringing the device when traveling
  

In fact, research shows that nearly half of CPAP users discontinue therapy within the first year. For patients seeking a better fit for their lifestyle, oral appliance therapy can be a game-changer.

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy

Oral appliance therapy provides a range of benefits that go beyond simple convenience. It can improve sleep, energy, mood, and even relationships, especially if snoring has become a nightly disruption.

Here’s why many adults are making the switch:

• Comfortable and easy to wear – No bulky masks, tubing, or air pressure
  
• Silent – No humming, blowing air, or noise to keep you or your partner awake
  
• Portable – Fits in a small case and is easy to take on trips
  
• Discreet – Looks like a clear retainer; no one has to know you’re wearing it
  
• Custom-fit – Personalized to your anatomy for maximum comfort and effectiveness
  
• High compliance – Most patients report wearing it consistently and sleeping better
  

For many patients, these advantages lead to more consistent use, resulting in better long-term health outcomes and fewer interruptions to their lifestyle.

How Oral Appliance Therapy Compares to CPAP

Understanding how these treatments differ can help you make the best choice for your health and comfort.

For adults who want a streamlined and effective solution, oral appliance therapy provides a more user-friendly experience without sacrificing results.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliances are best suited for adults with:

• Mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
  
• Primary snoring not associated with sleep apnea
  
• CPAP intolerance or non-compliance
  
• Lifestyle or travel needs that make CPAP impractical
  

A proper diagnosis is essential. If you haven’t been formally diagnosed with sleep apnea, your provider may recommend a home sleep test or refer you to a sleep physician. Once diagnosed, oral appliance therapy can be considered as a first-line treatment or a follow-up for those unable to continue with CPAP.

What to Expect from Treatment in Omaha

At Advanced Dental Sleep Treatment Center, we focus exclusively on treating sleep-disordered breathing in adults using oral appliance therapy. Our team offers a personalized, streamlined approach to help you sleep better and live healthier.

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

We begin with a one-on-one consultation to discuss your symptoms, previous treatments, and health history. If you have already been diagnosed with sleep apnea, we’ll review your sleep study results and determine if you’re a candidate for oral appliance therapy.

Custom Appliance Design

Using digital impressions and airway assessments, we create a device tailored to your anatomy. Unlike generic mouthguards, our appliances are designed for maximum comfort and long-term effectiveness.

Fitting and Follow-Up

After delivery, we fit the appliance, make minor adjustments, and review usage instructions. We provide follow-up visits to fine-tune the appliance and ensure you’re sleeping well and symptom-free.

Ongoing Support

We don’t stop at the fitting. Our team monitors your progress, collaborates with your physician, and makes sure your device remains effective over time.

What Results Can You Expect?

Many of our patients report:

• Reduced or eliminated snoring
  
• Fewer nighttime awakenings
  
• Improved energy and focus during the day
  
• Better relationships due to quieter nights
  
• Enhanced quality of life overall
  

Studies also show that oral appliance therapy, when properly fitted and monitored, can be just as effective as CPAP for patients with mild to moderate OSA. In short, it’s not just a convenient option—it’s a clinically proven one.

Ready to Find a CPAP Alternative That Works?

You deserve a sleep solution that fits your life, not one that disrupts it. If CPAP hasn’t worked for you, or if you’re ready to explore an easier way to breathe and sleep better, oral appliance therapy could be the answer.

At Advanced Dental Sleep Treatment Center, we’ve helped thousands of adults just like you find relief from snoring and sleep apnea. Our expert team is here to guide you through every step, from consultation to custom appliance fitting.

Contact us today at (402) 493-4175 to take the first step toward quieter nights, deeper sleep, and better health—starting now.