Sleep Apnea Treatment in Hillsboro – Oral Appliance Therapy

Effective sleep apnea treatment at East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro. Custom oral appliances provide a comfortable alternative to CPAP for obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), caused by throat muscles relaxing and blocking the airway.

Signs and Symptoms

• Loud snoring (reported by partner)
• Gasping for air during sleep
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability or mood changes
• Waking with dry mouth or sore throat
• Frequent nighttime urination
• High blood pressure

Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease and heart attack
• Stroke
• Type 2 diabetes
• Depression and anxiety
• Memory problems
• Workplace or driving accidents due to fatigue

Dental Sleep Apnea Treatment

Custom Oral Appliances

Our custom-fitted oral appliances (similar to night guards) work by:

• Repositioning the lower jaw forward
• Keeping the airway open during sleep
• Preventing tongue from blocking throat
• Reducing or eliminating snoring

Benefits over CPAP:

• More comfortable and easier to wear
• Quiet (no machine noise)
• Portable and travel-friendly
• No electricity needed
• Higher compliance rates
• Easy to clean and maintain

The Treatment Process

1. Sleep Study Review: We review your sleep study results (home or lab-based)
2. Consultation: Determine if oral appliance therapy is right for you
3. Custom Impressions: Take precise molds of your teeth and bite
4. Appliance Fabrication: Custom device made specifically for your mouth (2-3 weeks)
5. Fitting and Adjustment: Ensure proper fit and comfortable positioning
6. Follow-up Care: Monitor effectiveness and make adjustments as needed
7. Repeat Sleep Study: Verify treatment success

Who is a Good Candidate?

Oral appliances work best for:

• Mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
• Patients who cannot tolerate CPAP
• Primary snorers without apnea
• Patients seeking a portable solution
• Those with sufficient natural teeth for retention

Cost and Insurance

• Custom oral appliance: $1,500-$3,000
• Sleep study (if needed): $500-$2,000
• Follow-up adjustments: Usually included

Most medical insurance plans cover oral appliances for diagnosed sleep apnea at 50-80%. We work with your medical and dental insurance to maximize benefits.

Lifestyle Tips for Better Sleep

• Maintain healthy weight
• Sleep on your side (not back)
• Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bed
• Quit smoking
• Treat nasal allergies or congestion
• Keep regular sleep schedule
• Elevate head of bed 4-6 inches

Schedule Your Sleep Apnea Consultation

Take the first step toward better sleep and improved health. Call (503) 614-0198 or book your consultation online.

Sleep apnea treatment serving Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Aloha.