Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea

What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is a non-surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea and chronic snoring. A custom-fitted device, worn over the teeth during sleep, gently shifts the lower jaw forward to keep the airway open throughout the night. Think of it as a precision-made mouthguard designed specifically to prevent the airway from collapsing while you sleep. Unlike a CPAP machine, there are no tubes, no masks, and no noise.

At Raleigh Dental Arts, we work closely with sleep physicians in Raleigh, NC to coordinate your care from diagnosis through delivery of your appliance. Our team takes detailed impressions and measurements to ensure your device fits accurately and feels comfortable from the first night. This collaborative approach means your appliance is built around your specific airway needs, not a generic template.

Treats mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea

Custom-fabricated from impressions of your teeth

FDA-approved treatment option for qualifying patients

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy

Understanding what changes after treatment helps you picture life on the other side of restless nights. The improvements that come with consistent, quality sleep can reach into nearly every area of your daily routine.

Mornings that feel like rest

Quieter, undisturbed nights for your partner

Easy to wear, easy to maintain

Fits in a travel case for trips

No electricity or equipment required

Supports long-term heart and metabolic health

Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right for You?

Many patients who come to us about sleep problems wonder whether a dental appliance could actually help them. Oral appliance therapy is a good fit for a wider range of patients than most people expect, and the answer often surprises them.

Have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea

Have tried CPAP therapy and found it difficult to tolerate or maintain

Are looking for a quieter, more compact alternative to a CPAP machine

Currently snoring loudly enough to disturb your partner's sleep

Not Sure If You Qualify?

Many patients aren’t certain whether they’re a candidate until they sit down with our team. A sleep apnea consultation gives us the chance to review your sleep study results, assess your airway, and determine whether oral appliance therapy is the right path forward for you.

What to Expect With Oral Appliance Therapy

Most patients tell us the process is far simpler than they imagined, and that the first few nights wearing the appliance feel much more natural than they expected. Every step is designed around your comfort and a good outcome.

Sleep Study Review

Your treatment begins with a conversation, not a procedure. We review your sleep study results with you and work alongside your sleep physician to confirm your diagnosis and ensure oral appliance therapy is appropriate for your needs. You'll leave this appointment with a clear picture of what comes next.

Custom Impressions and Fitting

We take precise impressions of your teeth and bite, which are used to fabricate your appliance. This step takes only a few minutes and is completely comfortable. The impressions ensure your device fits your mouth specifically, not a general mold, which makes a meaningful difference in how well it works and how easy it is to wear.

Appliance Delivery and Adjustment

When your custom appliance is ready, we walk you through how to place it, remove it, and care for it properly. Most patients adapt quickly. If any minor adjustments are needed to improve fit or jaw position, we make them right here in the office.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

We check in with you to confirm the appliance is working, your sleep has improved, and your jaw and teeth remain comfortable. Our sleep care coordinator, Liz, monitors your progress throughout treatment and coordinates with your sleep physician as needed.

Ready to Sleep Through the Night Again?

Flexible Payment Plans for Your Smile

We believe everyone deserves quality dental care, regardless of budget. Our flexible financing options and in-house payment plans help you get the treatment you need with comfortable monthly payments that work for your situation.

ONEderful Finance help you to connects with multiple lenders, so you can find affordable monthly payments that fit your smile goals. 

Bite-sized payments, big smiles! Cherry Payment Plans offer easy-to-use financing options to make your dental care more accessible. 

CareCredit, a trusted healthcare financing option, offers convenient payment plans to fit your budget. Invest in your oral health with confidence.

Enjoy the flexibility of Affirm Finance. Their transparent payment plans let you break down dental costs into manageable monthly installments.

Don't Wait to Smile. Check out Our Payment Options.

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Oral Appliance Therapy FAQs

Questions about oral appliance therapy are completely normal, especially if this is the first time you’re considering a dental solution for your sleep. Here are the answers to what patients ask us most often.

What conditions does oral appliance therapy treat?

Oral appliance therapy is most commonly used for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and chronic snoring. It works by gently repositioning the lower jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. Your sleep physician determines whether your diagnosis falls within the range that OAT is designed to address.

Do I need a sleep study before getting an oral appliance?

Yes, a proper diagnosis from a sleep physician is required before we can fit you with an appliance. We don’t diagnose sleep apnea at our office, but we work closely with trusted sleep specialists in the area and can help coordinate your care once a study has been completed.

How is oral appliance therapy different from a CPAP machine?

A CPAP machine delivers pressurized air through a mask worn over the face, which many patients find uncomfortable or difficult to use consistently. An oral appliance is a small, quiet device worn inside the mouth, similar to a mouthguard. Many patients find it significantly easier to tolerate and maintain.

Will the appliance be comfortable to sleep with?

Most patients adapt to wearing the appliance within the first one to two weeks. Because it’s custom-fitted to your teeth and bite, it feels much more natural than a generic device. Minor adjustments can always be made at follow-up visits if needed.

How long does it take to receive my appliance?

After your impressions are taken, your custom appliance is typically ready within a few weeks. The fitting appointment itself is quick, and our team walks you through everything you need to know before you leave.

Is oral appliance therapy covered by insurance?

In many cases, oral appliance therapy for diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea is covered under medical insurance rather than dental insurance. Our sleep care coordinator can help you understand your benefits and assist with filing when applicable.

What if I've already tried CPAP and it didn't work for me?

You’re not alone. CPAP intolerance is one of the most common reasons patients come to us. For those who have difficulty tolerating CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy is often a well-supported alternative. Some patients also use both, relying on the appliance for travel and the CPAP at home.

Will I need to see my sleep physician and your office?

Yes, and that coordination is something we handle carefully. Our team collaborates with your sleep physician throughout your treatment to make sure your airway health is being monitored and your appliance is delivering results. You benefit from both perspectives.

How do I care for my oral appliance?

Daily cleaning with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a device-specific cleaner keeps your appliance in good condition. We provide full care instructions at your delivery appointment. With proper maintenance, most appliances last for several years before replacement is needed.

Can oral appliance therapy work long-term?

For many patients, oral appliance therapy provides consistent, lasting relief when the appliance is worn regularly and followed up with periodic monitoring. Over time, jaw position may shift slightly, and adjustments or a replacement device can keep treatment effective as your needs change.

Still Have Questions?

Can't find what you're looking for? Don't worry, we've got your back! Give us a shout anytime - we'd love to chat and help you out personally.

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Oral Appliance Therapy in Raleigh, NC

Sleep Better Tonight With a Custom Oral Appliance

What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy

Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right for You?