Oral Appliance Therapy

Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) is a non-invasive treatment for sleep-disordered breathing issues like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic snoring. It features a custom-fitted oral device worn during sleep, which repositions the jaw to keep the upper airway open and prevent obstructions.

Oral appliances are compact, portable, and easy to use, unlike bulky CPAP machines. They are an excellent option for individuals seeking a comfortable and discreet alternative to traditional sleep apnea equipment.

At Southland Dental, we use cutting-edge technologies like our Nightlase Laser and intraoral cameras to ensure your treatment is precise, effective, and tailored to your needs.

Signs Oral Appliance Therapy May Be Right for You

Not everyone who snores or experiences restless nights has sleep apnea, but specific symptoms indicate you could benefit from Oral Appliance Therapy in Knoxville. You might be a great candidate if you:

• Have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
• Cannot tolerate using CPAP machines due to discomfort or inconvenience.
• Frequently snore loudly, causing disruptions for you or your partner.
• Experience excessive daytime fatigue or drowsiness.
• Wake up with headaches, dry mouth, or a sore throat.
• You have momentarily stopped breathing while sleeping.

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, we recommend booking a consultation at Southland Dental to explore how OAT can improve sleep quality and long-term health.

The Oral Appliance Therapy Process

Our Knoxville office is dedicated to making your experience with Oral Appliance Therapy seamless and stress-free. Here’s what to expect when you begin your OAT journey at Southland Dental:

1. Initial Consultation with Dr. Drew Shabo
   Your treatment begins with an in-depth consultation, where Dr. Drew Shabo will carefully evaluate your symptoms and medical history. Using advanced diagnostic tools like our intraoral camera, we’ll gain clear insights into the structure of your airway and jaw alignment.
2. Custom Appliance Design
   If we determine you’re a suitable candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy, we’ll take a precise mold of your teeth to create a custom-fitted oral device. This ensures your appliance works effectively and is comfortable to wear.
3. Fitting and Adjustment
   Once your oral appliance is ready, we’ll fit it and make the necessary adjustments to optimize its performance. At this stage, Dr. Shabo will explain how to properly use and care for your device to ensure its longevity and effectiveness.
4. Nightlase Laser Treatment (Optional)
   To enhance the results of Oral Appliance Therapy, you may opt for Nightlase Laser Therapy, a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser technology to tighten the tissues in the airway. This complementary treatment can reduce snoring and improve airflow for a more restful sleep.
5. Ongoing Monitoring and Support
   We’re committed to your success with Oral Appliance Therapy. That’s why we provide routine follow-ups to monitor your progress and make any needed tweaks to your treatment plan. You’ll always have access to our team for questions or concerns.

Oral Appliance Therapy in Knoxville

We’ve successfully helped countless patients regain better sleep and overall well-being through Oral Appliance Therapy. Whether utilizing the latest advancements like the Nightlase Laser or providing empathetic support, we’re here to impact your life positively.

Are you ready to finally wake up feeling rested and energized? Don’t wait any longer to address your sleep issues. Schedule a consultation for Oral Appliance Therapy in Knoxville with Dr. Drew Shabo and the team at Southland Dental today.