Patient Questions
Sleep Apnea FAQ
Answers to common questions about oral appliance therapy, CPAP alternatives, and what to expect from dental sleep apnea care at Boston Dental Sleep Solutions.
Common Questions
Helpful Answers
Explore the questions patients ask most often when considering a more comfortable alternative to CPAP.
Oral appliance therapy uses a custom-made device worn during sleep to help keep the airway more open. It is designed by a qualified dental sleep medicine provider and may be recommended for appropriate patients with sleep-disordered breathing.
For some patients, a custom oral appliance may be an appropriate alternative to CPAP. The right option depends on your diagnosis, symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals.
Adults with snoring or obstructive sleep apnea who want to explore a dental treatment option may be candidates. A consultation helps determine whether this approach is suitable for your needs.
Your visit typically includes a discussion of symptoms, prior sleep testing or CPAP experience, and a dental evaluation to determine whether oral appliance therapy may be appropriate.
If treatment is recommended, impressions or digital scans are used to create a custom appliance. The fit is then checked and adjusted for comfort and effectiveness.
Timing varies, but many patients move from consultation to delivery over a small number of visits. Follow-up adjustments may be needed to optimize comfort and results.
Most patients find a properly fitted custom appliance easier to tolerate than bulky equipment. There can be an adjustment period, but comfort is a major goal of treatment.
The appliance should be cleaned regularly using the care instructions provided by your dental team. Proper cleaning helps maintain hygiene and extend the life of the device.
Yes. Periodic follow-up visits help monitor fit, comfort, and treatment progress. Ongoing care is important to support long-term success.
Ready to Sleep Better?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Garima Rana to learn whether a custom oral appliance may be the right next step for your sleep apnea care.