Sleep Apnea Treatment
Better sleep for better health. Expert sleep apnea treatment in Boston with custom oral appliances and CPAP alternatives.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The muscles relax, causing soft tissue in the throat to sag, vibrate (snoring), or completely collapse and block the airway.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
The most common form, caused by throat muscles relaxing and blocking the airway during sleep. Soft tissue collapses and prevents airflow.
Central Sleep Apnea
Less common, occurs when the brain doesn't send proper signals to control breathing muscles during sleep.
Complex Sleep Apnea
A combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea, requiring comprehensive treatment approaches.
Signs & Symptoms to Watch For
Nighttime Symptoms
Daytime Symptoms
Serious Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Critical Health Warning
Sleep apnea isn't just about poor sleep - it can lead to life-threatening health complications if left untreated.
Dental Sleep Medicine Solutions
Oral Appliance Therapy
Custom-fitted oral appliances are an effective, comfortable alternative to CPAP machines for many patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD)
- • Move the lower jaw forward during sleep
- • Keep the airway open and unobstructed
- • Custom-fitted for maximum comfort
- • Most commonly prescribed oral appliance
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRD)
- • Hold the tongue in a forward position
- • Prevent tongue from blocking the airway
- • Alternative for patients who can't wear MAD
- • Effective for tongue-based obstructions
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
Our Treatment Process
Initial Consultation
Comprehensive evaluation of your sleep patterns, medical history, and current symptoms to determine if you're a candidate for oral appliance therapy.
Sleep Study Review
Analysis of your sleep study results to understand the severity of your sleep apnea and determine the most effective treatment approach.
Custom Treatment Planning
Development of a personalized treatment plan and selection of the most appropriate oral appliance type for your specific condition.
Precision Impressions
Detailed impressions and measurements are taken to ensure your custom oral appliance fits perfectly and functions effectively.
Appliance Fitting & Adjustment
Delivery of your custom appliance with careful fitting, instruction on use, and initial adjustments for optimal comfort and effectiveness.
Follow-up & Monitoring
Regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments, and ensure optimal treatment results.
Ongoing Care & Maintenance
Continued support with regular checkups, appliance maintenance, and coordination with your sleep physician for long-term success.
Oral Appliances vs. CPAP Comparison
| Feature | Oral Appliances | CPAP Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Custom-fitted, minimal bulk | Mask and hose system |
| Portability | Small and travel-friendly | Bulky machine and supplies |
| Noise Level | Completely silent | Machine noise can disturb sleep |
| Power Requirements | No electricity needed | Requires power source |
| Patient Compliance | High compliance rates (80%+) | Variable compliance (50-70%) |
| Maintenance | Simple cleaning routine | Regular filter/mask replacement |
Collaborative Medical Care
We work closely with sleep physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure you receive comprehensive, coordinated care for your sleep apnea.
Get the Quality Sleep You Deserve
Don't let sleep apnea continue to compromise your health, energy, and quality of life. Our dental sleep medicine solutions can help you achieve better sleep and improved overall health with comfortable, effective oral appliances.
Schedule Sleep Consultation