At Sinada Dental, we offer appliances to help individuals with sleep apnea experience healthier, more consistent sleep.
Ask us about $1,000 Off Invisalign Now through the end of the year!
Sleep Apnea Appliances in Houston, TX
Your Trusted Experts for Sleep Apnea Treatment in Houston
Sleep apnea is a serious, sometimes fatal medical disorder that affects around 10% of American men over the age of 40 and 6% of American women of the same age. Sleep apnea sufferers completely stop breathing during sleep, sometimes hundreds of times in a single night. Normal breathing ceases because the airway becomes obstructed, causing a serious reduction of airflow to the lungs. There are a number of dental devices that can be used to alleviate this condition. The goal of most of these devices is to separate the jaws and push them forward slightly. This slight repositioning opens up the airway and allows oxygen to flow freely again. Wearers of sleep apnea dental devices report that they stop loud snoring, feel more rested in the daytime, and are much more comfortable going to sleep. Sleep apnea appliances work best on patients who are not significantly overweight. They offer a viable alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). At Sinada Dental, we can prescribe several of these appliances for sleep apnea treatment in Houston.
Types of Sleep Apnea Appliances
Appliances for sleep apnea treatment in Houston fall into two categories: fixed and adjustable. Here are brief descriptions of some commonly used sleep apnea dental appliances:
TAPA® 3 (Thornton Adjustable Positioner)
The TAP ® 3 is the smallest, most comfortable member of the TAP family. It is a two-part custom-created sleep apnea appliance that fits over the teeth in much the same way as a sports mouthguard. The TAP ® 3 projects the jaw forward to prevent the tongue and soft tissues from impeding the airway. The lower jaw positioner is adjustable, which means that it can be altered to suit the comfort level of the wearer. The TAP ® 3 appliance can accommodate the three main types of malocclusion and allows the lips to fully close.
OASYS Appliance
The OASYS appliance is designed to move the base of the tongue toward the front of the mouth by gently repositioning the jawbone (mandible). This shift opens the oropharynx and strengthens the upper airway. An extension of the upper shield projects toward the nose, creating a larger nasal opening and less resistance to normal airflow. This adjustable appliance is comfortable to wear and extremely patient-friendly.
Klearway Appliance
The Klearway Appliance is generally used to alleviate obstructive sleep disorder and eliminate snoring. The patient or dentist can project the jaw forward in increments of 0.25mm at a time. This ensures maximum comfort for the sleeper. The Klearway appliance is made from Variflex heat-softening acrylic, which makes it easier to insert. Running warm water over the appliance makes it pliable, but once placed in the desired position, the acrylic hardens again.
Herbst Telescopic Appliance
The Herbst appliance is held in the mouth by clasps and friction grips. It is made of acrylic and contains adjustable metal wiring. The advantage of this appliance is that the wearer is able to move vertically and laterally without dislodging the appliance. The Herbst appliance is usually used in mild and moderate cases of sleep apnea, and can also alleviate loud snoring effectively.
Schedule Your Sleep Apnea Treatment Appointment
If you’ve shown symptoms of or been diagnosed with sleep apnea, our expert dental professionals will evaluate your situation and get you set up with an effective, high-quality sleep apnea appliance. To schedule your initial consultation for sleep apnea treatment in Houston, simply reach out to our office today.
Sleep Apnea Appliances FAQ
Do I Need A Sleep Study Or Physician Diagnosis Before Getting An Appliance?
What Does The Fitting Process Involve, And How Long Until It Feels Comfortable?
Are There Side Effects Or Risks I Should Know About?
How Do I Clean The Appliance, And How Long Will It Last?
Is An Oral Appliance Covered By Insurance?
Do I Need A Sleep Study Or Physician Diagnosis Before Getting An Appliance?
Yes. Oral appliances are typically prescribed after a physician confirms obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with a sleep study (home or in-lab). We collaborate with your sleep doctor—or can help coordinate testing—so your appliance is properly indicated and tailored to your needs.
What Does The Fitting Process Involve, And How Long Until It Feels Comfortable?
Your journey usually includes records (digital scans or impressions and a bite registration), appliance fabrication, and a delivery visit with initial adjustments. A brief break-in period is common as your jaw muscles adapt. We schedule follow-ups to fine-tune comfort and position, and your sleep physician may order a post-treatment study to verify effectiveness.
Are There Side Effects Or Risks I Should Know About?
Temporary jaw stiffness, tooth or gum tenderness, extra saliva or dry mouth can occur and often improve as you acclimate. With long-term use, small bite changes are possible; we monitor your occlusion at checkups and provide morning bite guides and jaw exercises to help maintain alignment.
How Do I Clean The Appliance, And How Long Will It Last?
Rinse after each use, brush gently with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleaner, and avoid hot water. Store it dry in a ventilated case and bring it to maintenance visits for inspection. Longevity varies with wear habits and grinding, but many devices last several years; components can often be adjusted or replaced if they show wear.
Is An Oral Appliance Covered By Insurance?
Coverage is often through medical (not dental) insurance when OSA is documented and an appliance is prescribed as treatment. Requirements differ by plan. We provide the necessary documentation and a detailed estimate, and can discuss HSA/FSA use and payment options.
