Loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, and restless nights may signal obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). If you’re CPAP-intolerant—or want a quieter, travel-friendly option—Blue Dental Clinic on the Upper East Side offers custom mandibular advancement devices (MADs) that open the airway comfortably and discreetly.

Why choose us

• Physician-collaborative care: We coordinate with your sleep physician for diagnosis, prescriptions, and follow-up testing.
• Custom, titratable devices: Precision-fit appliances advanced in small steps for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
• Bite & TMJ aware: We protect jaw joints, monitor your bite, and design with grinding/clenching in mind.
• Digital, goop-free scans: Accurate fit, faster turnaround.
• Insurance-friendly: We help navigate medical/dental benefits, pre-auths, and documentation.

Who oral appliances help

• Primary snorers (after screening to rule out OSA)
• Mild–moderate OSA (first-line alternative to CPAP)
• CPAP-intolerant moderate–severe OSA (in consultation with your sleep physician; sometimes combined with CPAP for lower pressure)
• Travel/backup solution for frequent flyers

How oral appliances work

A slim, custom device gently moves your lower jaw slightly forward during sleep. This tightens soft tissues, keeps the tongue from collapsing backward, and widens the airway—reducing snoring and apnea events.

The treatment process

1. Screen & refer (if needed): We review symptoms (Epworth, STOP-Bang) and refer for a sleep study if you’re undiagnosed.
2. Prescription & records: With a confirmed diagnosis/Rx, we take digital scans and select the right appliance style.
3. Fitting: Your device is adjusted for comfort and retention; you’ll get home instructions.
4. Titration: We advance the device gradually over 2–6 weeks to optimize snoring relief and symptoms.
5. Follow-up sleep test: Your sleep physician confirms effectiveness; we fine-tune as needed.
6. Maintenance: Annual checks (or sooner if symptoms change), appliance cleaning, and bite monitoring.

Comfort, side effects & care

• Common & temporary: Morning jaw stiffness, extra saliva/dry mouth, or tooth pressure—usually resolves with minor adjustments.
• Care: Rinse on waking, brush with liquid soap (not toothpaste), air-dry, and store in a ventilated case.
• Longevity: Many appliances last 3–5+ years depending on wear and grinding forces.

Special considerations

• TMJ or bruxism: We choose designs that cushion joints and can double as a night guard.
• Missing teeth/partials: Most patients still qualify; we’ll evaluate retention points.
• Nasal congestion/allergies: Improving nasal airflow enhances results—coordinate with your physician.

Cost & insurance

Coverage for oral appliance therapy often falls under medical insurance when you have a qualifying OSA diagnosis and prescription. Plans vary; pre-authorization may be required. We’ll verify benefits, provide a clear written estimate, and supply all documentation. HSA/FSA funds are typically eligible.

FAQs

Is an oral appliance as effective as CPAP?
For mild–moderate OSA, outcomes are often comparable—especially given higher real-world adherence. For severe OSA, CPAP remains first-line, with appliances considered when CPAP isn’t tolerated.

Will it stop my snoring?
Usually, yes—especially after titration. We still recommend screening to ensure snoring isn’t masking OSA.

Can it change my bite?
Small bite changes can occur over time. We minimize risk with design choices, morning bite guides, and regular monitoring.

What if I grind my teeth?
Great—appliances often protect against grinding wear while treating OSA/snoring.

How soon will I feel better?
Many notice snoring reduction in days and daytime energy improvements within 1–2 weeks. We confirm medical success with a follow-up sleep study.



Ready to breathe—and sleep—better?

Book a sleep apnea appliance consultation at our Upper East Side office. We’ll coordinate with your sleep physician, outline costs and coverage, and tailor a comfortable device that quiets the night and restores your energy.