ORAL APPLIANCE THERAPY

Dr. Zach Hentges offers oral appliance therapy—a non-invasive treatment approach that uses custom-fitted dental devices to address various conditions, including sleep apnea, snoring, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. These comfortable, removable appliances work by repositioning the jaw and tongue to improve breathing and reduce symptoms.

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)

• Chronic snoring

• TMJ disorders and jaw pain

• Bruxism (teeth grinding)

• Sleep-related breathing disorders

• Headaches caused by jaw misalignment

• Neck and shoulder pain related to jaw position

Oral appliances work by gently repositioning your lower jaw forward, which helps keep your airway open during sleep. This forward positioning prevents the tongue and soft tissues from collapsing into the throat, reducing or eliminating snoring and sleep apnea episodes. For TMJ disorders, appliances help realign the jaw joint and reduce muscle tension.

There are several types of oral appliances, each designed for specific conditions. Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are the most common for sleep apnea, gently moving the lower jaw forward. Tongue retaining devices hold the tongue in place to prevent airway obstruction. TMJ appliances help stabilize the jaw joint and reduce muscle strain.

Oral appliance therapy offers numerous advantages over other treatment options. It's non-invasive, comfortable to wear, and doesn't require surgery or medication. Patients often experience improved sleep quality, reduced snoring, and relief from TMJ symptoms. The appliances are portable, easy to clean, and can be adjusted as needed.

Ideal candidates for oral appliance therapy include those with mild to moderate sleep apnea, chronic snoring, or TMJ disorders. A thorough evaluation, including a sleep study, helps determine if oral appliance therapy is the right treatment option. We work closely with sleep specialists to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.