What is an Oral Appliance?

An oral appliance will bring your jaw forward while you sleep, helping to reduce obstructions in sleep apnea.

An oral appliance consists of two trays, which fit over the upper and lower teeth. A hook mechanism attached to the upper tray mates with a ridge in the lower tray and allows the lower jaw to be positioned forward, thereby preventing the soft tissue of the throat and tongue from collapsing over the airway.  

How Do These Devices Work to Prevent Snoring?
Snoring and sleep apnea occur when, while asleep, the tissues in the back of your throat close up your airway. As you breathe, a vibration occurs in the tissues of the throat that produces the snoring noise. The main culprits are the soft palate and the tongue. Dental appliances work by pulling the jaw and tongue forward in order to open up the air passage.  Unfortunately, however many patients don’t use their appliance or complain of constant pain in the jaw joint or dryness in their mouth.

How much does it cost?
The fee ranges from $250-2000.  We do not provide this service in our center at the present time anymore.  Ask your local general dentist for more information.