Sleep Apnea Treatment in Studio City, CA

Sleep Apnea Treatment FAQ

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea — most commonly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) — is a disorder in which the soft tissues of the oropharynx collapse during sleep, repeatedly blocking the upper airway and causing breathing cessation episodes lasting 10 seconds or longer. It disrupts oxygen saturation and normal sleep architecture.

How is sleep apnea treated by a dentist?

Dental treatment for obstructive sleep apnea primarily involves custom-fabricated mandibular advancement devices (MADs) that reposition the lower jaw and tongue forward during sleep to maintain airway patency. For moderate to severe cases, CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy may be recommended in coordination with a sleep medicine physician.

What is an oral appliance for sleep apnea?

An oral appliance — typically a mandibular advancement device (MAD) — is a custom-fitted, dual-arch device worn during sleep. It advances the mandible forward by several millimeters, which tightens the soft palate and prevents the tongue and pharyngeal tissues from collapsing into the airway.

Is oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea comfortable?

Yes. Modern mandibular advancement devices are fabricated from medical-grade thermoplastic or acrylic using digital impressions for a precise, comfortable fit. Titration allows gradual adjustment of jaw advancement — typically 5 to 10 millimeters — to balance therapeutic effectiveness with jaw comfort.

Can sleep apnea go away on its own?

Obstructive sleep apnea generally does not resolve without intervention. Contributing factors such as excess weight, nasal obstruction, or macroglossia (enlarged tongue) perpetuate airway collapse. Treatment with a mandibular advancement device, CPAP, or lifestyle modifications such as weight management is typically required.

Is snoring always a sign of sleep apnea?

Not always. Primary snoring results from vibration of the soft palate without airway obstruction, whereas OSA-related snoring is accompanied by apneic (breathing cessation) and hypopneic (reduced airflow) episodes. A polysomnography sleep study measuring the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) is needed to distinguish between the two.

How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

Diagnosis requires a professional evaluation and typically a polysomnography (overnight sleep study) or a home sleep apnea test (HSAT) that measures airflow, oxygen saturation, respiratory effort, and heart rate. An apnea-hypopnea index of five or more events per hour confirms an OSA diagnosis.

Can dentists treat sleep apnea?

Yes. Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine can fabricate and adjust custom mandibular advancement devices as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate OSA and as an alternative for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy. At Studio Dental Care in Studio City, CA, treatment is coordinated with sleep medicine physicians for comprehensive care.

How long does sleep apnea treatment take?

Once digital or physical impressions are taken, a custom mandibular advancement device is typically fabricated within two to three weeks. After initial fitting, titration appointments over four to six weeks fine-tune the jaw advancement position for optimal airway opening and comfort.

How do I get started?

Schedule a sleep apnea consultation at Studio Dental Care in Studio City, CA, to discuss your symptoms, review any existing sleep study results, and determine if a custom mandibular advancement device is the right treatment for your obstructive sleep apnea.