Sleep Guards for Mild Sleep Apnea in Catonsville, MD

How a sleep guard works

A sleep guard, also called an oral appliance, gently positions your lower jaw forward while you sleep. This helps keep your airway open so you can breathe more easily through the night.

Who it's for

Sleep apnea is diagnosed by a physician, usually with a sleep study. A sleep guard may be an option for patients with mild obstructive sleep apnea, including some who find a CPAP machine hard to use. If you haven't been diagnosed but snore loudly or feel tired during the day, talk with your doctor.

What to expect

1. Your physician diagnoses sleep apnea and discusses treatment options with you.
2. Your dentist examines your teeth and jaw to make sure an oral appliance is a good fit.
3. We take impressions, and a lab makes your custom appliance.
4. At a fitting visit, we adjust it for comfort, then follow up to fine-tune it.
5. Your physician may recommend a follow-up sleep test to confirm it's working.

Possible side effects

Some patients notice jaw soreness, extra saliva, or a slight change in how their teeth meet in the morning. These are often temporary, and we'll monitor them at follow-up visits.