Do you wake up feeling exhausted despite a full night's sleep? Sleep apnea might be the culprit. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, this serious sleep disorder affects nearly 30 million Americans, with 80% of cases remaining undiagnosed. 

While CPAP machines are a standard treatment, many individuals find them uncomfortable or challenging to use. Fortunately, dentists offer alternative solutions that can effectively manage sleep apnea symptoms in some cases. 

Read on to explore how dental professionals can help diagnose and treat sleep apnea, and where you can find the best dentist in Monmouth Junction to help with sleep apnea and improve your quality of life.

How Can a Dentist Help with Sleep Apnea?

Dentists play a crucial role in identifying signs of sleep apnea. In fact, you can think of your dentist as the first line of defense in catching sleep apnea before it causes serious health problems. Though dentists can’t diagnose conditions like sleep apnea unless they have additional medical licenses, they can refer you to a specialist for an official diagnosis if they find the signs of sleep apnea. During regular dental check-ups, they can spot warning signs of sleep apnea, such as: 

  • Worn-down teeth from teeth grinding, a condition known as bruxism
  • Scalloped tongue
  • High-arched palate

If your dentist notices these signs, they can refer you to a sleep specialist and may even prescribe home sleep apnea testing kits that monitor your breathing patterns while you sleep. This collaborative approach between dentists and sleep physicians ensures you receive an accurate diagnosis and the most effective treatment plan. 

How Can Dental Appliances Help Sleep Apnea?

Dental appliances offer effective solutions for some sleep apnea sufferers, especially those who want to try an alternative to a CPAP machine. Some appliance options include: 

  • Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): Custom-fitted mouthpieces that gently shift your lower jaw forward while you sleep, preventing your airway from collapsing and allowing for normal breathing. 
  • Tongue-stabilizing devices (TSDs): These devices hold the tongue forward during sleep, keeping it from blocking the airway. 
  • Orthodontic intervention: For many patients, narrow dental arches, a recessed lower jaw, or crowded teeth can significantly reduce airway space. Orthodontic interventions like palatal expansion widen the upper jaw, creating more room for the tongue and increasing nasal airway volume. 

While you might spot over-the-counter options at pharmacies, custom-made appliances created by your dentist provide significantly better results because they're precisely fitted to your mouth's unique structure. This personalized approach not only improves comfort but also dramatically increases effectiveness in managing sleep apnea symptoms.

How Effective Are Dental Devices Compared to CPAP?

While CPAP machines remain the gold standard for severe sleep apnea and are necessary for some severe cases of obstructive sleep apnea, dental devices shine in treating mild to moderate cases. These oral appliances are also especially valuable for patients who simply cannot tolerate CPAP therapy due to discomfort, claustrophobia, or noise concerns. Patients are sometimes more likely to use them consistently because they're comfortable, portable, and don't require electricity or make noise. For those with severe sleep apnea, doctors sometimes recommend combination therapy, where a dental device works alongside a CPAP machine at lower pressure settings, making treatment more comfortable while maintaining effectiveness.

What to Expect When Getting a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard in Monmouth Junction 

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea and your care team believes a dental appliance is the best course of action, getting your custom-made appliance is easy. 

  • First, your dentist will take precise impressions or digital scans of your teeth. This quick, painless process ensures that your device will fit perfectly. 
  • After your custom mouth guard is created, typically within one to two weeks, you'll return for a fitting where the dentist will make any necessary adjustments for comfort. 
  • After getting your oral appliance, you'll have regular follow-up appointments every few months where your dentist will fine-tune the appliance based on your feedback and check how effectively it's managing your sleep apnea symptoms. These ongoing adjustments are important for maximizing the device's benefits and addressing any issues before they become problems.

How to Find the Best Dentist in Monmouth Junction for Sleep Apnea Treatment

A good night’s sleep shouldn’t feel out of reach. At Brunswick Smiles, we help make that possible with personalized dental care for sleep apnea that actually fits your life. If you’ve been struggling with restless nights or waking up exhausted, we offer a comfortable alternative to bulky CPAP machines through custom-fit oral appliances designed just for you. 

Our team takes the time to understand your sleep patterns, health goals, and daily routine so we can craft a solution that feels easy to use and truly effective. With advanced dental technology and a warm, patient-focused approach, we’re here to help you breathe easier, sleep better, and wake up feeling like yourself again.

Ready to get a better night’s sleep with the best sleep apnea treatment in East Brunswick?