Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type. Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by the soft tissues of the throat collapsing backwards during sleep resulting in the upper airway to become partially or completely blocked. Untreated obstructive sleep apnea can place stress on the body and heart by reducing the amount of oxygen able to reach organs, causing hypertension, arrhythmia, stroke, heart failure, and heart attacks.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is found more in men than women and can affect people of all ages. One of the ways to treat mild to moderate OSA is with an oral appliance. Central and mixed sleep apnea cannot be treated with an oral appliance alone. The oral appliance for OSA helps to keep the airway open by advancing the lower jaw forward or by preventing the soft tissues of the throat from relaxing in a backwards position. It resembles a mouth guard.

If the dentist believes that you are a candidate for an oral appliance therapy, an impression of your teeth will be taken. The appliance will be fabricated and then tried in your mouth to check for fit. Adjustments may be necessary. It is recommended that you receive another sleep study to check if the appliance is working well for you.