Oral Appliance Frequently Asked Questions

1300 101 505

Oral Appliance Frequently Asked Questions

1300 101 505
How effective is an Oral Appliance?

Oral appliances have been scientifically proven to be over 95% effective for improving snoring, with a majority of people also waking more refreshed and energised.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Australasian Sleep Association now consider oral appliances to be the first-line treatment for snoring, and, along with CPAP, one of the only two proven treatments for sleep apnoea. Now patients have an option that can be significantly more comfortable than the CPAP machine. 

What is the best treatment for snoring?

Most sleep physicians and ENT’s consider oral appliances as the most effective treatment for snoring and is widely regarded as the most comfortable available treatment.

It’s important to understand most “over the counter” treatments for snoring – such as sprays, medications, and pillows – are largely unproven and ineffective.

While lifestyle changes such as weight loss and sleeping on your side can be very helpful, oral appliances remain the best available treatment for overcoming snoring.

Are all oral appliances as good as each other?

No, there is great variation. There are currently over 100 different oral appliances available worldwide. Many of these appliances have not been scientifically tested to prove effectiveness, are not adjustable and are often “one size fits all”.

The “one size fits all boil and bite devices are far less effective, uncomfortable and can cause significant side effects.
SleepWise clinic utilises scientifically proven oral appliances, carefully chosen for their comfort, effectiveness, and features.

The ideal appliance for each person depends on factors such as the position and number of teeth, as well as the size and position of the jaw.

Are oral appliances comfortable to wear?

Although the mouth can be a sensitive area, virtually all our patients adapt within a night or two and find the appliance surprisingly comfortable and don’t want to sleep without it. This is because the state of the art 3D printed appliances are custom-made and very thin.

Is treatment covered by private health insurance?

This treatment is generally covered by most private health funds. Contact SleepWise Clinic for more details.

What is included in the treatment fee for an oral appliance?
  • A state of the art custom made 3D printed oral appliance,
  • A money-back, satisfaction guarantee,
  • A follow-up review visit approximately four to six weeks after fitting the oral appliance,
  • High level of support, including any additional review and adjustment, visits if required,
  • A comprehensive all-inclusive three-year warranty
How long does an oral appliance last?

Previous generation acrylic appliances last for 3-5 years. The new generation 3D printed nylon appliances are virtually unbreakable and can be expected to last significantly longer.

Often a patient wants to replace their appliance after several years for a new model or to have a spare. Our 3D printing technology allows this to be done at a significantly reduced price.

What if I am missing teeth or have a bridge or denture?

Appliances can be successfully used even if all the upper teeth are missing and you have an upper denture. In fact, generally, a minimum of only four teeth is needed to be able to utilise a dental sleep appliance.

We will conduct a thorough assessment of the teeth, any dental work, and the gums to ensure predictable, successful results long-term.

I don't want to use the CPAP machine - is the oral appliance an alternative?

Oral Appliances, along with the CPAP machine, are the only two frontline treatments for sleep apnoea recommended by medical experts. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the world peak body, has advised that all patients should be offered the choice between CPAP and an oral appliance, even for severe sleep apnoea.

Oral appliances are generally considered far more comfortable than CPAP with virtually every study demonstrating significantly higher compliance rates with similar effectiveness.

If you have been offered CPAP and are not using it or are finding it difficult to use, you can be assured that an oral appliance will provide you with far more comfort and ease in overcoming your symptoms of sleep apnoea and snoring.

If you are using CPAP, an oral appliance can be a great adjunct when travelling, or where there is no access to power. Many people also use an oral appliance when they want to have a break from CPAP for several days.

Do I have to wear the oral appliance for life?

There may be other methods that you can do for yourself that can help reduce your snoring and sleep apnoea. This varies between individuals and is assessed and discussed in the first consultation.

For many people, lifestyle changes such as weight loss, exercise or changing body position during sleep can go a long way to reducing snoring and sleep apnoea.

Even if all the snoring and sleep apnoea is not eliminated, these lifestyle changes can go a long way in enhancing and minimising treatment.

Are there any side-effects?

The vast majority of patients have little or no side effects. A small percentage of people may experience minor side-effects such as bite changes, excessive saliva, and pressure on teeth. This is discussed during your initial consultation.

Side-effects are generally temporary and disappear after a day or two, or very occasionally with a simple adjustment.

How does the oral appliance work?

Oral appliances work by holding the lower jaw slightly forward during sleep, thereby opening the airway and preventing the collapse at the back of the throat. This enables normal breathing during sleep with the aim of eliminating all snoring and sleep apnoea.

Do I need a referral to make an appointment?

No, you do not need a referral from a GP or sleep specialist prior to making an appointment with us.

Get Your Sleep Back!

Tired of  snoring and unrefreshing sleep? The results of treatment are often life changing.
Book now and take the next step for overcoming snoring, sleep apnoea or tiredness

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