Sleep Apnea Dentist in Banff
A comfortable alternative for better sleep. Rocky Mountain Dental offers a custom oral appliance for mild to moderate sleep apnea, a welcome option for patients who find CPAP difficult to tolerate.
About Sleep Apnea Treatment at Our Practice
Obstructive sleep apnea disrupts your breathing during sleep, leading to poor rest, daytime fatigue, and serious health risks. For mild to moderate cases, a custom oral appliance worn at night gently repositions the jaw to keep the airway open, a comfortable, effective alternative to CPAP for many patients.
What Is a Dental Sleep Appliance
A dental sleep appliance is a custom fitted oral device, similar in some ways to a night guard, that repositions the lower jaw slightly forward during sleep. This position change helps keep the airway open, reducing the interruptions in breathing that characterise sleep apnea, without the mask and hose associated with CPAP therapy.
Who This Helps
A dental sleep appliance is a good option for a specific group of patients.
- Patients diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- Patients who have tried CPAP but find it difficult to tolerate
- Anyone experiencing loud snoring alongside daytime fatigue
- Patients who prefer a more portable, less invasive option than CPAP
- Anyone whose sleep physician has recommended an oral appliance as an option
What Is Included
- A consultation to review your sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment history
- An impression or digital scan to design your custom appliance
- Fabrication of your dental sleep appliance
- A fitting appointment to confirm comfort and proper jaw positioning
- Follow up adjustments as needed to optimise effectiveness
Why Choose Rocky Mountain Dental for This
We understand that not every patient tolerates CPAP well, and a custom dental sleep appliance can offer meaningful relief for mild to moderate cases. Our team works alongside your existing sleep apnea diagnosis to provide a comfortable, well fitted appliance, coordinating with your physician's guidance where needed.
What to Expect at Your Visit
- A consultation to review your sleep apnea diagnosis and discuss whether an oral appliance is a suitable option.
- An impression or digital scan taken to design your custom appliance.
- Fabrication of your dental sleep appliance based on that impression.
- A fitting appointment to confirm comfort and correct jaw positioning.
- Follow up visits to adjust the appliance and monitor its effectiveness.
Recovery and Aftercare
There is no recovery period associated with a dental sleep appliance, though some patients experience mild jaw discomfort as they adjust to wearing it during the first week or two. Regular follow up visits help confirm the appliance continues to fit well and is providing effective relief over time.
Related Treatments
Patients using a dental sleep appliance sometimes also need a night guard if grinding or clenching is a separate concern, and those experiencing jaw discomfort may want to discuss TMJ treatment as well.
Cost of a Sleep Apnea Dental Appliance
The cost of a dental sleep appliance depends on the complexity of the design and your specific treatment needs. For an accurate estimate based on your situation, please contact our team for a personalised quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dentist diagnose sleep apnea?
A dentist can help identify signs that suggest sleep apnea and recommend a referral for a formal sleep study, but a definitive diagnosis is typically made by a sleep physician.
Can a dentist help with sleep apnea?
Yes. For patients diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, a dentist can provide a custom oral appliance that helps keep the airway open during sleep.
Can a dentist make a mouth guard for sleep apnea?
Yes. A dental sleep appliance is a custom fitted device designed specifically to reposition the jaw and support open airways during sleep, distinct from a standard night guard.
Are there other treatments for sleep apnea besides CPAP?
Yes. For mild to moderate cases, a custom dental sleep appliance is a well established alternative, and other options may be discussed with your sleep physician depending on severity.
Do I need a sleep apnea diagnosis before getting an oral appliance?
Generally yes, a formal diagnosis from a sleep physician helps confirm that an oral appliance is an appropriate option for your specific case.
Book Your Appointment
Looking for a more comfortable option than CPAP? Book a consultation today and find out if a dental sleep appliance could help.
