Loading ...

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when the upper airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing breathing pauses, snoring, and disrupted rest. It can lead to daytime fatigue, cardiovascular stress, and other health complications.

Role of Dentists in Treating Sleep Apnea

Dentists play a key part in dental sleep medicine — evaluating oral structure, fitting custom devices, and coordinating care with sleep physicians. Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) is a proven method to manage mild to moderate OSA or for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP.

Oral Appliance Options

  • Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD): reposition the lower jaw forward to open airway
  • Tongue-stabilizing devices: hold tongue forward to prevent airway blockage

Our Sleep Apnea Therapy Process

Dr. Nguyen offers a patient-centered path from diagnosis to appliance therapy:

  • Clinical evaluation & oral exam assessing airway structure
  • Collaboration with sleep physician and review of sleep study (polysomnogram)
  • Custom impression or 3D scan to design the oral appliance
  • Appliance fitting, adjustment, and patient training
  • Follow-up and periodic monitoring for fit, comfort, and effectiveness

Benefits & Limitations of Oral Appliance Therapy

  • Reduces snoring and sleep interruptions
  • Improves daytime energy and reduces fatigue
  • Non-invasive, portable, and easier compliance for many patients
  • Not as powerful as CPAP for severe cases; success depends on proper candidate selection

Frequently Asked Questions

Image

Why Choose Acorn Family Dental Care

We believe that every smile tells a story.

We shine. With expert dentists, modern technology, and a gentle approach, we deliver care that’s as comfortable as it is effective. From routine check-ups to advanced treatments, we put your needs first, ensuring you feel confident every step of the way.

Deserves the best care possible.

  • Icon Experienced Dental Professionals.
  • Icon Modern Technology.
  • Icon Comfort & Pain-Free Care.
  • Icon Emergency Support.
  • Icon Clean & Hygienic Environment.
  • Icon Skilled & Caring Dentists.
Image

Start Your Sleep Apnea Evaluation

Book your dental appointment in Berkeley, CA, and discover why patients trust us for lasting, confident smiles.

Phone Icon

Call us at

+1 510-848-0114

98%

Our Patient Care Retention Rate.

ImageImage