If you’re exploring oral appliance therapy or learning more about how sleep apnea affects your health, these common questions can help you understand what to expect. Below are answers many of our patients ask before beginning treatment with Dr. Alex Joseph. For more detailed information, please review the full Sleep Apnea page or contact our office directly.

What Causes Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is typically caused by the soft tissues in the throat relaxing too much during sleep, which narrows or fully blocks the airway. This can happen due to anatomy, excess weight, aging, genetics, or muscle tone changes in the upper airway. In many cases, a combination of these factors contributes to breathing disruptions at night.

How Do Oral Appliances Treat Sleep Apnea?

Oral appliances are custom-made devices that gently reposition the lower jaw to keep the airway open while you sleep. This stabilizes the airway, reduces snoring, prevents nighttime breathing pauses, and allows the body to reach deeper, more restorative stages of sleep. They are smaller, quieter, and easier to tolerate than CPAP machines for many patients.

Is Oral Appliance Therapy Comfortable?

Yes. Oral appliances are designed to fit comfortably and securely in your mouth, similar to a custom sports guard or retainer. Most patients adjust quickly and find them much easier to wear than CPAP masks. They are lightweight, compact, and nonintrusive, making them ideal for travel and nightly use.

How Do I Know If I’m a Candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy?

Most patients with mild to moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea are good candidates for oral appliance therapy. If you snore loudly, experience daytime fatigue, or struggle with CPAP compliance, a custom-fitted appliance may be the right solution. An evaluation with Dr. Alex Joseph will determine whether this treatment aligns with your symptoms and airway anatomy.

Do I Still Need a Sleep Study?

Yes. A sleep study is required to diagnose sleep apnea and evaluate its severity. In many cases, a convenient at-home sleep test can be used. The results of your study help ensure you receive the correct level of care and allow us to measure treatment success after receiving your oral appliance.

Will Oral Appliance Therapy Help With Snoring?

Absolutely. Since snoring is caused by vibrations from airflow obstruction, keeping the airway open at night significantly reduces or eliminates snoring. Many partners notice an improvement almost immediately, and patients often feel more rested after just a few nights of consistent use.

Is Sleep Apnea Dangerous if Left Untreated?

Yes. Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure, heart strain, stroke risk, weight fluctuations, mood changes, and chronic fatigue. Because the body is repeatedly deprived of oxygen at night, long-term health risks increase over time. Early treatment helps restore healthier breathing patterns and supports long-term wellness.

Can Sleep Apnea Happen Even If I Don’t Snore?

Yes. While snoring is a common symptom, not everyone with sleep apnea snores. Some patients experience silent airway collapses that disrupt sleep without producing noticeable sound. Daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and waking up unrefreshed can still occur even without snoring.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Custom Oral Appliance?

Most patients receive their appliance within a few weeks. After your evaluation, impressions or digital scans of your teeth are taken and sent to a specialized dental lab. Once the appliance arrives, Dr. Alex Joseph ensures it fits properly and makes any necessary adjustments for comfort and effectiveness.

Will Insurance Cover Oral Appliance Therapy?

Many medical insurance plans offer coverage for oral appliance therapy when used to treat diagnosed sleep apnea. Coverage varies, but our team helps you navigate benefits, submit necessary documentation, and maximize reimbursement whenever possible.

How Long Do Oral Appliances Last?

With proper care, most oral appliances last several years. They are made of durable materials designed for nightly use. Dr. Joseph will assess your appliance during routine visits and recommend replacement if there are signs of wear or changes in your bite over time.

Can Oral Appliance Therapy Replace CPAP?

For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, oral appliances are often an effective standalone treatment. For severe cases, some patients may use an appliance in combination with CPAP to improve comfort and reduce pressure settings. Dr. Joseph will guide you based on your sleep study results and symptoms.

Do Oral Appliances Require Special Cleaning?

Oral appliances are easy to maintain. Most require simple daily cleaning with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleanser, similar to caring for a retainer. Keeping the appliance clean helps preserve its lifespan and maintain oral hygiene.

Can Sleep Apnea Affect My Mood or Mental Health?

Yes. Poor-quality sleep can contribute to irritability, anxiety, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. Over time, sleep deprivation can impact emotional regulation and cognitive function. Treating sleep apnea often leads to smoother moods and improved mental clarity.

What Happens If My Symptoms Don’t Improve?

If symptoms persist, Dr. Joseph will reassess your appliance, make adjustments, or discuss additional treatment options. Follow-up visits and post-treatment sleep tests help ensure your therapy is working effectively.