Sleep Apnea and Snore Guards: What to Know
Quick answer
A dental sleep appliance may be considered for selected patients with snoring or obstructive sleep apnea, but a dentist does not diagnose sleep apnea from snoring alone. Medical assessment comes first.
What it is
A physician assesses suspected sleep apnea and its severity. If an oral appliance is considered, the dentist coordinates with the medical provider, evaluates the mouth, and plans fitting and follow-up.
What may happen
Tell your physician and dentist about sleep symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments. Ask who coordinates follow-up and how appliance fit, bite, and sleep outcomes will be monitored.
Who may ask about it
A person who snores or has a diagnosed sleep disorder should discuss it with a physician. Ask the dental team whether it provides coordinated appliance care.
Questions and cautions
CDA recommends medical assessment before oral appliance therapy and coordination with the attending physician. Do not present a snore guard as a stand-alone diagnosis or cure.
Frequently asked questions
Can a dentist diagnose sleep apnea from snoring?
No. A medical assessment is needed to determine whether obstructive sleep apnea is present and how severe it is.
Can a dental appliance help with sleep apnea?
An oral appliance may be considered for selected patients as part of coordinated care. Ask a physician and dentist about the individual case.
Talk with a dentist
If you are considering this treatment, bring your questions to a dental appointment. The dentist can explain what applies to your situation, compare reasonable options, and review likely visits, aftercare, risks, and fees before you decide.