Sleep Apnea Treatment
in Fort Mill, SC
Oral Appliance Therapy for Better Sleep and Breathing
Loud snoring, restless sleep, and daytime fatigue may be more than just annoyances—they can be signs of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a serious health condition that affects your breathing during sleep. At Core Dentistry, we offer non-invasive sleep apnea treatment using custom oral appliances to help you breathe better and rest more fully without the need for a CPAP machine.
Our skilled providers, Dr. Elizabeth Alexander, DMD FAGD and Dr. Erika Burley, DMD, are trained in dental sleep medicine and help patients throughout Fort Mill, Tega Cay, and India Hook find relief from sleep apnea symptoms with personalized care.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the soft tissues in the back of your throat collapse during sleep, temporarily blocking airflow. This causes repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night, leading to:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Daytime drowsiness or difficulty concentrating
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth or sore throat
- Mood changes or irritability
Left untreated, sleep apnea can increase your risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems. Many people remain undiagnosed for years, mistaking symptoms for general fatigue or stress.
Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea
If you’ve been diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA—or cannot tolerate a CPAP machine—oral appliance therapy may be an ideal solution. These small, custom-fitted devices are worn in the mouth during sleep to:
- Reposition the lower jaw slightly forward
- Keep the airway open and prevent tissue collapse
- Reduce snoring and improve airflow
- Promote deeper, more restful sleep
Our oral appliances are lightweight, portable, and easy to care for—offering a comfortable alternative to bulky machines and face masks.
Our Sleep Apnea Treatment Process
At Core Dentistry, we take a collaborative approach to sleep apnea treatment, working closely with sleep physicians when needed to ensure accurate diagnosis and proper care.
Here’s what to expect:
- Consultation and Screening
If you're experiencing symptoms or have a prior diagnosis, we’ll review your medical history, discuss your sleep concerns, and evaluate your airway and bite. - Custom Oral Appliance Fitting
We’ll take detailed impressions of your teeth to create a device that fits comfortably and effectively. Once fabricated, we’ll adjust it to ensure optimal function. - Follow-Up and Adjustment
We’ll monitor your progress, make adjustments as needed, and check that the appliance is reducing symptoms without causing jaw discomfort.
For patients who grind their teeth while sleeping, oral appliance therapy may also serve a dual purpose—similar to our bruxism treatment solutions.
Who Can Benefit from Oral Appliance Therapy?
This treatment is ideal for individuals who:
- Have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- Are CPAP-intolerant or looking for a simpler alternative
- Experience chronic snoring or daytime sleepiness
- Prefer a compact and quiet treatment option
- Have TMJ-friendly jaw movement (we'll evaluate this)
If you're unsure whether you have sleep apnea, we can refer you to a sleep specialist for a home sleep study or in-lab testing before we begin treatment.
FAQs About Sleep Apnea Treatment
What’s the difference between snoring and sleep apnea?
Snoring is the sound of partially blocked airflow but doesn’t always indicate sleep apnea. In obstructive sleep apnea, breathing actually stops repeatedly throughout the night. A sleep study can help determine the difference.
Is an oral appliance more effective than a CPAP?
For mild to moderate OSA, oral appliances can be just as effective as CPAP therapy when used consistently. They’re also more comfortable and easier for many patients to use nightly.
Will the oral appliance hurt my teeth or jaw?
No—your appliance is custom-made for your bite to ensure comfort. Some patients may experience mild jaw tension at first, but this typically resolves quickly with proper fit and adjustment.
Do I need a sleep study before starting treatment?
Yes. A formal diagnosis is essential before we begin any sleep apnea treatment. If you haven’t been diagnosed yet, we’ll guide you through the steps to get a sleep study referral.
Will my insurance cover the oral appliance?
Many medical insurance plans (not dental) do cover oral appliances for diagnosed sleep apnea. Our team can help you verify your benefits and file the necessary documentation.
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Request a Sleep Apnea Consultation in Fort Mill
If snoring, fatigue, or disrupted sleep are affecting your quality of life, Core Dentistry can help. We provide custom oral appliance therapy for patients seeking a non-invasive way to manage sleep apnea and sleep better every night.
Call (803) 681-6600 or request your consultation online to learn more about sleep apnea treatment in Fort Mill, SC.