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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Sleep Apnea Treatment in Wilsonville
For some adults diagnosed with sleep apnea, an oral appliance is an option. Wilsonville patients can explore appliance therapy with our Port Dover dental team.
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Caring for Wilsonville patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for WilsonvilleDentistry’s role in better sleep
Oral appliances can be part of a physician-guided plan.
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep, interrupting breathing. It can cause loud snoring, gasping, daytime fatigue and other health concerns. Diagnosis is made by a physician, usually with a sleep study. For some people, a custom oral appliance that positions the lower jaw forward may be a treatment option.
Already diagnosed, or wondering whether your snoring needs a doctor’s attention? Wilsonville residents can talk with our Port Dover team about how oral appliances work. The dentist can assess your teeth and jaws and work with your physician to decide whether an appliance is appropriate.
Diagnosis first
Sleep apnea needs a medical diagnosis.
Why a physician is involved
Sleep apnea is a medical condition that can affect heart health, blood pressure and daytime alertness. A physician evaluates symptoms and arranges a sleep study to confirm the diagnosis and severity. Treatment options, including CPAP, oral appliances or other approaches, are chosen based on these findings.
Signs worth reporting
Loud snoring, pauses in breathing noticed by a partner, waking up gasping, morning headaches, daytime sleepiness and difficulty concentrating are common signs. If you notice these, speak with your doctor. Your dentist may also notice signs, such as tooth wear or a narrow airway, and suggest medical evaluation.
Appliance therapy
Appliances help keep the airway more open.
Mandibular advancement devices
A mandibular advancement device fits over the upper and lower teeth and gently holds the lower jaw forward during sleep. This can help keep the airway more open. The device is custom-made from impressions or scans and can be adjusted gradually to find an effective and comfortable position.
Who may be suitable
Oral appliances are often considered for mild to moderate sleep apnea, or for people who cannot tolerate CPAP. Suitability depends on your diagnosis, teeth, gums and jaw health. The dentist will examine these and discuss your options with you and your physician.
Fitting
Fitting and adjusting take several visits.
Records and fabrication
The dentist examines your teeth, gums and jaw joints and takes impressions or scans and bite records. The appliance is then made to fit your mouth. At the fitting appointment, the dentist checks comfort and shows you how to insert, remove and clean it.
Adjustments and follow-up
Over the following weeks, the appliance may be adjusted to move the jaw forward gradually. Follow-up visits monitor comfort and side effects. Your physician may recommend a follow-up sleep study to check effectiveness. Report jaw pain, tooth discomfort or changes in your bite.
Long-term care
Regular reviews keep therapy on track.
Caring for the appliance
Clean the appliance daily as instructed and store it in its case. Avoid hot water, which can warp it. Bring it to dental checkups so the fit and condition can be checked. Appliances may need repair or replacement over time.
Monitoring side effects
Some people experience jaw stiffness, tooth tenderness or bite changes. The dentist will monitor for these effects and recommend exercises or adjustments. Continue to see your physician for sleep apnea follow-up, as treatment needs may change over time.
Planning your appointment
Exploring appliance therapy from Wilsonville.
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, contact our Port Dover office to discuss oral appliance therapy. Bring your sleep study results and physician’s recommendations to the consultation.
If you snore loudly but have not been diagnosed, speak with your doctor first. Mention any jaw pain or previous orthodontic treatment to the dentist.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Sleep apnea appliance questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Can a dentist diagnose sleep apnea?
No. Diagnosis is made by a physician, usually with a sleep study. The dentist may notice signs and refer you, and can provide appliance therapy when appropriate.
Is an oral appliance as effective as CPAP?
CPAP is often very effective, while oral appliances may work well for some people, particularly with mild to moderate apnea. Your physician can discuss which is suitable.
Will the appliance change my bite?
Some people notice bite changes over time. The dentist will monitor this and suggest exercises or adjustments to help minimize side effects.
How long does it take to get used to?
Many people adapt within a few weeks. Mild jaw or tooth discomfort in the morning often eases. Report persistent pain.
Can I use a snoring device from the store?
Over-the-counter devices are not a substitute for medical evaluation of sleep apnea. Speak with your doctor and dentist before using one.
Snoring devices and night guards
Additional Services →Snoring Appliances →
Custom oral appliances can reduce snoring for some adults once sleep apnea is ruled out. Wilsonville patients can learn about fitting and follow-up in Port Dover.
Custom Night Guards →
A custom night guard is shaped to your teeth to cushion grinding during sleep. Wilsonville patients can learn about fit, care and reviews at our Port Dover office.