Oral appliance therapy in Glen Allen, VA
A custom, comfortable device that keeps your airway open at night, no mask, no hose, no machine.
Custom made, carefully fitted, and confirmed to work
How an oral appliance works
A custom oral appliance, sometimes called a mandibular advancement device, gently holds your lower jaw forward while you sleep. That keeps your tongue and soft tissue from falling back and blocking your airway, so you get the oxygen you need through the night. It’s one small, lightweight piece that fits like a retainer.
Comfortable, quiet, and easy to travel with
The device is light enough to fit in your pocket, makes no noise, and needs no electricity. You can speak with it in and move your jaw freely, and there’s no mask or hose. Many people who’ve struggled with a CPAP find they can finally stick with treatment because a small appliance is so much easier to live with.
Fitted, then fine-tuned
We start with a 3D scan of your mouth and choose a comfortable starting position for your jaw. Your device is custom made in a lab and comes back in about three weeks. Then we fine-tune it over follow-up visits and confirm it’s working with another sleep study, so you know you’re getting real treatment, not just a device.
Is an oral appliance as effective as a CPAP?
For mild to moderate sleep apnea, a custom oral appliance can be as effective as a CPAP. Because it’s so much easier to wear, many people use it more consistently, which means better real-world results. For severe apnea, it can be part of a combination approach.
Is it uncomfortable to sleep with?
Most people adjust quickly. It’s lightweight, lets you move your jaw and speak, and doesn’t feel suffocating the way a mask can. If anything rubs or bothers a tooth, we can adjust it. We’re with you through that process.
Who makes the device?
A custom oral appliance is made and fitted by a dental provider trained in sleep, working alongside your sleep physician. It’s designed from a 3D scan of your teeth for an accurate, comfortable fit, and titrated over time so it actually treats your apnea.
Oral Appliance Therapy for Better Sleep
➔ No mask, hose, or machine noise
➔ Small enough to travel with anywhere
➔ Custom fit from a 3D scan
➔ Fine-tuned and retested until it works
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean and care for my oral appliance?
Rinse it and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush each morning, then store it dry in its case. Keep it away from heat, which can warp it, and bring it to follow-up visits so we can check the fit. Simple daily care keeps it lasting for years.How long does an oral appliance last?
With proper care, a custom oral appliance typically lasts several years. We check it at your follow-up visits and can adjust it over time as your needs change. When it eventually wears out, we'll make sure you have a replacement so your treatment never lapses.Will an oral appliance change my bite or move my teeth?
A custom appliance is designed to fit precisely and minimize unwanted movement, but small bite changes can happen with any oral device over time. We watch for this at your follow-ups and adjust as needed, which is one reason a professionally fitted appliance matters.How long does it take to get used to sleeping with an oral appliance?
Most people adjust within a week or two. Some mild jaw soreness or extra saliva at first is normal and usually fades quickly. If anything keeps bothering you, we can fine-tune the fit, so you're never stuck simply tolerating discomfort.Does an oral appliance work for severe sleep apnea?
For severe sleep apnea, CPAP is usually the most effective option, but an oral appliance can still play a role. Some people use it in combination with CPAP, or on nights when CPAP isn't practical, so they stay treated. We'll base the plan on your diagnosis.
Sleep and airway insights from our team
From spotting the signs of sleep apnea to understanding your treatment options, our blog breaks down what you need to know about sleeping and breathing better.
