Discover what Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) with CLM Sleep can do for you after reading the complete guide below. This non-surgical procedure is relatively easy, effective, and conclusive in cases of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
Introduction to Oral Appliance Therapy
What is Oral Appliance Therapy? These appliances are individualized devices that provide oral treatment for sleep apnea and snoring. Like mouth guards, they are worn for sleeping and repositioning the jaw or tongue to keep the airway open, allowing for uninhibited breathing during sleep.
How Does Oral Appliance Therapy Work? OAT design directs the lower jaw (mandible) or tongue forward to avoid airway collapse. Maintaining an open airway reduces the frequency and severity of sleep apnea episodes. Most oral appliance prescriptions are for patients who have mild moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Or are unable to tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.
Who is it For? The therapy is appropriate for those individuals who are suffering from a mild level of sleep apnea to moderate or patients who are intolerant to CPAP therapy. This could also be an option for those looking for alternatives to surgery and for those looking for more portable and easier options.
See more: AHI index – Measures the severity of sleep apnea
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
Here are the benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy:
Non-Invasive and Comfortable
Oral appliances work a bit like an automatic CPAP machine that works outside of surgical treatment. These are custom fitted to fit a user into their mouths, so snugly and held during sleep to minimize discomfort and improve sleep quality.
Portable and Easy to Use
They are small, lightweight, and easy to carry oral appliances that allow them to be excellent travel mates. They are everything but artificial devices biggest plus is that, alongside CPAP machines, they are the only thing powering them and their equipment: hence their convenience.
Effective for Mild to Moderate Sleep Apnea
Oral appliances are some of the best treatment options available today for moderate to mild sleep apnea sufferers. It reduces apnea episodes while improving sleep quality, making it better than relying solely on CPAP therapy.
Types of Oral Appliances Used in Therapy
Below are 6 types of Oral Appliances Used in Therapy:
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs)
These devices move the lower jaw forward to prevent the airway from collapsing. They are the most common type of oral appliance used to treat sleep apnea.
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)
TRDs use suction to hold the tongue in place, preventing it from blocking the airway. They are often recommended for patients with large tongues or those who cannot use MADs.
Hybrid Devices
Hybrid devices combine features of both MADs and TRDs to provide a comprehensive approach to keeping the airway open.
Custom-Fit Appliances
These devices are custom-made to fit the patient’s unique dental structure, offering a more comfortable and effective fit compared to over-the-counter solutions.
Combination Appliances
Combination devices incorporate the benefits of both positional therapy and mandibular advancement, ensuring optimal airway support.
Positional Oral Appliances
These devices are designed to keep patients in a specific sleeping position, usually on their side, to reduce the risk of airway blockage.
See more: Guide to Sleep Apnea Test At Home: Quick and Easy
Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right for You?
Who Can Benefit?
Oral appliance therapy for OSA is a suitable option for individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy. It is also recommended for people looking for a non-invasive, comfortable, and portable alternative to CPAP or surgery. Key factors in determining eligibility for Oral Appliance Therapy include the severity of sleep apnea and the individual\u2019s response to CPAP. If CPAP causes discomfort or non-compliance, Oral Appliance Therapy may be a better choice.
When to Consult a Sleep Specialist?
It is important to consult a sleep specialist if you experience symptoms such as persistent snoring, choking, or gasping during sleep, as well as excessive daytime sleepiness. A sleep specialist can assess your condition, determine the severity of sleep apnea, and recommend the most appropriate treatment. If you are unsure whether Oral Appliance Therapy is right for you, a specialist’s guidance can help you make an informed decision.
See more: Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Oral Appliance Therapy Fee
Oral appliance therapy cost varies depending on the type of device, customization, and provider fees. On average, fees can range from $1,800 to $2,500. Check with your insurance provider to see if it covers sleep apnea treatment.
Oral Appliance Therapy vs. Other Treatments
To better understand this method, you need to know some of the differences between the oral appliances method and other effective sleep apnea treatments.
Oral Appliance Therapy vs CPAP
| Criteria | Oral Appliance Therapy | CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) |
| Type of Treatment | Non-invasive oral device | Machine with a mask that delivers air pressure |
| Comfort | Comfortable, easy to wear | Some users find masks uncomfortable |
| Portability | Lightweight and portable | Bulky and requires a power source |
| Effectiveness | Effective for mild to moderate OSA | Effective for all levels of OSA |
| Ease of Use | Simple to use, no power required | Requires power, cleaning, and maintenance |
| Noise Level | Silent, no noise | May produce noise from the air pump |
| Maintenance | Minimal maintenance required | Regular cleaning and maintenance needed |
| Cost | $1,800 – $2,500 | $500 – $3,000 (plus ongoing mask replacement) |
| Suitable For | Mild to moderate OSA, CPAP-intolerant | All levels of OSA |
Surgical Options vs. Oral Appliances
| Criteria | Oral Appliance Therapy | Surgical Options |
| Type of Treatment | Non-invasive oral device | Invasive surgical procedure |
| Comfort | Comfortable, easy to wear | Discomfort during recovery |
| Portability | Lightweight and portable | Not applicable |
| Effectiveness | Effective for mild to moderate OSA | Can be permanent for severe OSA |
| Ease of Use | Simple to use, no power required | No ongoing usage after surgery |
| Recovery Time | No recovery time | Recovery time varies (weeks to months) |
| Risk | Low risk, non-invasive | Higher risk due to surgical complications |
| Cost | $1,800 – $2,500 | $6,000 – $10,000+ |
| Suitable For | Mild to moderate OSA, CPAP-intolerant | Severe OSA or those who fail other treatments |
Compare Oral Sleep Appliance with Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard
Sleep apnea mouth guards are a subcategory of oral sleep appliances, typically simpler and available over the counter (OTC). They are designed primarily to reduce snoring and provide limited relief for mild sleep apnea. On the other hand, oral sleep appliances encompass a broader range of devices, including highly effective, custom-fitted options prescribed and managed by sleep specialists for the treatment of mild to moderate sleep apnea.
| Criteria | Oral Sleep Appliance | Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard |
| Scope of Use | Comprehensive range of devices for sleep apnea treatment, including custom-fitted options | Primarily simple, over-the-counter (OTC) devices for snoring or mild sleep apnea |
| Target Users | Suitable for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea and those requiring customized solutions | Suitable for people with snoring or mild sleep apnea who prefer non-prescription devices |
| Level of Customization | Custom-fitted by dental professionals for optimal fit and effectiveness | Generally pre-made, one-size-fits-all, or boil-and-bite designs with limited customization |
| Expert Involvement | Requires consultation and fitting by a sleep specialist or dentist | No specialist required; can be purchased OTC or online |
| Effectiveness | Highly effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea and snoring | Primarily effective for snoring and mild sleep apnea, less effective for severe cases |
| Cost | Higher cost due to customization ($1,800 – $2,500) | Lower cost ($20 – $200) due to generic design |
| Maintenance | Periodic adjustments and professional follow-up may be required | Minimal maintenance, usually self-service cleaning |
See more: Severe Sleep Apnea
Conclusion of the Article
Oral Appliance Therapy is a proven, non-invasive solution for managing sleep apnea and snoring. Its comfort, portability, and effectiveness make it a preferred choice for individuals with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those seeking an alternative to CPAP therapy. With various device options, from custom-fitted appliances to positional devices, patients can find a solution that fits their lifestyle and needs. By promoting better sleep quality and improving overall health, Oral Appliance Therapy offers a significant quality-of-life improvement. However, since the suitability of this treatment depends on the severity of sleep apnea and the patient’s response to CPAP. It’s essential to consult a sleep specialist. Professional guidance ensures an accurate diagnosis and the most effective treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs.
If you’re considering Oral Appliance Therapy, CLM Sleep is here to help. Our team of experts will guide you through the process, offering personalized support to find the best treatment for your unique condition. Contact us today and take the first step toward better sleep and improved well-being.
