Sleep Apnea FAQ Downtown Portland, OR
 While it may seem convenient to receive an oral appliance to treat your snoring or sleep apnea without a visit to a dentist, the AADSM recommends that you don’t skip the in-office portion of your oral appliance therapy treatment journey.
In fact, visiting an AADSM Qualified Dentist will ensure you have a dedicated partner in your treatment journey and achieve lasting symptom relief.
Why is In-Person Care Critical For Successful Treatment? +
The dentist’s in-person exam appointment is essential to making an oral appliance that fits you correctly and comfortably. Dentists are experts in caring for your teeth, gums and jaws.
When an in-person evaluation of your teeth is not completed and mail-in bite impressions are used, your appliance may not fit properly. An appliance that fits poorly may not work effectively to treat your snoring or sleep apnea. A poorly-fit device can also be uncomfortable to wear, damage your teeth, or create complications with existing dental work. What Happens At An In-Person Appointment? +
At an in-person appointment with AADSM Qualified Dentist, you will meet the provider who will guide you through your treatment journey.
The dentist will:
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Examine your teeth, gums, jaw muscles, and joints.
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Take X-rays if necessary.
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Take impressions of your teeth: this involves making a mold of your teeth that is used to create your custom appliance. The dentist may use either a digital scanning device or make the impressions using dental putty.
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Take a bite registration: this is a personalized measurement that helps the dentist find the best starting point for your appliance. |
Why Should I See An AADSM Qualified Dentist For An Oral Appliance? +
AADSM Qualified Dentists are licensed dentists who have additional training to properly customize and fit your oral appliance for best results. They can help you avoid or treat any side effects, make sure your appliance is comfortable, and work with your doctor to make sure your OSA or snoring treatment is successful. Your AADSM Qualified Dentist can provide follow-up care for as long as you use your oral appliance, ensuring you get the benefits of refreshing sleep for years to come. Am I Able to Have Virtual Appointments? +
Even if your AADSM Qualified Dentist may complete some appointments virtually, a direct, in-person examination, impressions, and the bite registration should be completed by a trained dental professional, an AADSM Qualified Dentist, prior to your appliance being made. What If I’m Asked to Sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement? +
Be cautious if a provider asks you to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) as part of treatment. NDAs are not commonly required for oral appliance therapy, so it is worth thinking about more closely if a provider asks you to sign one. How Quickly Will I Feel Relief From My Symptoms? +
Many patients experience immediate improvement in snoring and sleep quality after wearing an oral appliance for just a few nights. However, it typically takes two to four weeks of consistent nightly use for your body to fully adjust to the treatment and for you to notice significant improvements in daytime fatigue and concentration.
Custom-made appliances may take a few weeks to a couple of months to reach full effectiveness as your dentist fine-tunes the positioning for optimal results. What's the Difference Between an Oral Appliance and a CPAP Machine? +
While a CPAP machine uses air pressure delivered through a mask, a custom oral appliance repositions your lower jaw forward to keep your airway open during sleep.
Oral appliances offer distinct advantages: they're quiet, require no electricity, are highly portable for travel, and have a significantly higher compliance rate—about 90% compared to approximately 50% for CPAP machines. However, CPAP therapy is more effective for severe sleep apnea, whereas oral appliances work best for mild to moderate cases. Will My Appliance Cause Any Side Effects? +
Most patients adjust within the first few weeks. Common short-term side effects include increased salivation or dry mouth, which typically resolve quickly. Long-term use can cause gradual dental movement, particularly tipping of the front teeth. This is why regular dental check-ups—at least every six months—are essential to monitor your teeth and jaw alignment, and your dentist can make adjustments to protect your bite. How Do I Care For My Oral Appliance? +
Rinse your appliance daily with lukewarm water and gently brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive cleanser. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the material. Store it in a designated case to prevent damage and bacterial growth. Have your dentist professionally clean and inspect it regularly. With proper care, a high-quality oral appliance typically lasts three to seven years. |
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION
If have any questions contact us today! Call (503) 446-2957 to schedule a consultation appointment. |
