Treatment for Snoring and Sleep Apnea
Oral appliances used for the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea give patients a convenient, portable, comfortable, and very effective way to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.
Dr. Schleicher has found oral appliances often to be the best course of treatment for any level of snoring, as well as for mild to severe sleep apnea, especially if patients prefer not to use a CPAP machine, which can be cumbersome, uncomfortable, and difficult to keep clean.
Customized Oral Appliances
A wide variety of customized oral appliances are available, and each is fitted to the patient based upon mouth size, teeth, previous dental work, etc.
Each patient receives personal instruction on use and care of using an oral appliance.
Dr. Schleicher Offers the Nation’s Best Brands of Oral Appliances
SomnoDent AVANT
SomnoDent® Avant™ is our most comfortable appliance ever. The upper and lower splints are designed with the latest Computer Aided Design software and are milled using a single piece of pre-cured dental acrylic. The precuring process improves the flexural strength of the material by 18% – reducing the number of breakages and remakes that can eat into your chair time.
SomnoDent Fusion
SomnoDent® Fusion is traditionally made from dental acrylic, and then we add our Bflex soft liner for unsurpassed comfort. The design of the SomnoDent® Fusion includes replaceable wings for enhanced protrusion without having to reset the bite. The wings, and the screw adjustments, allow you or your patient to set the appliance in the most comfortable and effective position for their treatment.
Prosomnus
Prosomnus is a comfortable and very easy-to-use oral appliance to safely help alleviate snoring and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. This lower jaw advancement appliance will help patients wake up better rested and energized.
SomnoDent®
This two-piece, dorsal-fin-style oral appliance is custom-made and -fitted for each patient. It is adjustable and also convertible for patients with complete upper dentures and/or partial upper or lower dentures. By moving the lower jaw slightly forward when worn while sleeping, this oral appliance provides a continuously open airway.
TAP®
The TAP® holds the patient’s lower jaw in a forward and closed position, comfortably preventing it from falling open during sleep. This action reduces snoring by maintaining a clear airway and improving breathing for sleep apnea management.
Panthera
A sleeping person must make a concerted effort to breathe in order for an adequate respiratory flow to be maintained. The Panthera opens the airway by moving the lower jaw forward to a comfortable position so that there is no interrupted or labored breathing while sleeping.
Herbst
Allowing patients to move laterally and vertically without disengaging the appliance, the Herbst has been proven to be effective treatment for snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. This is a particularly good option for fitting over existing partial dentures, though the metal sliding piston arms can bother some users.
Klearway
The Klearway oral appliance keeps the teeth together while holding the lower jaw and tongue forward during sleep. This opens the wearer’s airway. The Klearway has been successfully used for years.
Its major drawback would be bulk and the placement of the adjustment mechanism in the roof of the mouth, which can be uncomfortable for some. Dr. Schleicher can fit you with a new Klearway, or if you are already a user, we can make you a new one when replacement is needed.
Why Choose Dr. Schleicher in Houston, TX?
Dr. Schleicher is a trusted provider of sleep dentistry in Houston, committed to personalized, compassionate care. With extensive experience designing custom oral dental appliances, he ensures every patient receives the comfort, effectiveness, and support necessary for restful sleep. Choosing Dr. Schleicher means you’ll receive comprehensive care tailored precisely to your needs, allowing you to experience better sleep and a healthier life. Call 713-828-8587 today to schedule your consultation and start experiencing restful nights again.
FAQs About Oral Dental Appliances
What are oral dental appliances?
Oral dental appliances are small, custom-made devices worn in your mouth during sleep. They work by gently repositioning your lower jaw and tongue, helping to keep your airway open. This reduces or eliminates snoring and significantly improves breathing during sleep.
How do oral dental appliances help with sleep apnea?
Oral appliances prevent airway obstruction by moving your jaw slightly forward, stabilizing your tongue and soft tissues. This action keeps your airway clear, reducing sleep apnea symptoms, improving sleep quality, and boosting daytime energy and alertness.
Why are customized appliances better than store-bought options?
Customized appliances fit precisely to your teeth and jaw structure. Unlike generic store-bought devices, custom appliances are designed using impressions taken directly from your mouth, ensuring comfort, effectiveness, and reducing the risk of jaw pain or teeth shifting.
Is snoring always a symptom of sleep apnea?
Not always. While snoring is a common symptom associated with sleep apnea, some individuals may snore without having the condition. However, persistent or loud snoring should be evaluated by a professional to rule out underlying health concerns like sleep apnea.
How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a sleep study (polysomnography), performed either overnight at a sleep clinic or through convenient at-home testing. These studies track breathing patterns, heart rate, oxygen levels, and other sleep indicators to determine if sleep apnea is present.
Can oral appliances replace CPAP therapy?
Oral dental appliances are an effective first-line treatment for mild to moderate sleep apnea and are often preferred by patients who find CPAP machines uncomfortable.
What should I expect during an appointment for an oral dental appliance?
At your appointment with Dr. Schleicher, you'll have a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, sleep history, and overall oral health. Impressions of your teeth and jaw alignment will be taken to custom-design your appliance. You’ll also receive detailed instructions for proper use, care, and follow-up visits to ensure effectiveness.
How do I maintain my oral dental appliance?
Caring for your appliance is simple:
- Rinse with cool water every morning.
- Regularly clean using mild soap or a specialized dental appliance cleanser.
- Avoid hot water or exposure to high temperatures to prevent warping.
- Store your appliance safely in a protective case when not in use.
- Schedule regular dental visits for professional inspections.
Are oral appliances comfortable to sleep with?
Yes. Because they’re custom-made specifically for your mouth, oral appliances are very comfortable. Most patients quickly adapt to wearing them nightly, enjoying improved sleep without discomfort.