Managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with a non-invasive solution is possible with the right oral appliance. At Lawson Dentistry in Urbandale, Iowa we offer custom-fitted sleep appliances that provide an effective alternative to a CPAP machine, helping both children and adults experience restful sleep and better overall health.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or exploring CPAP alternatives, understanding how to care for your device is essential to ensure long-term success with your sleep apnea treatment.

How Oral Appliances Help Treat Sleep Apnea

Oral appliance therapy is a non-surgical, comfortable way to manage sleep disorders, especially obstructive sleep apnea. These devices work by gently repositioning the jaw and supporting the airway to prevent nighttime interruptions in breathing.

At our dental office, we provide custom-fitted appliances as part of a personalized treatment plan. These are ideal for patients looking for a quiet, portable, and easy-to-use treatment option. They are especially effective for those who find the CPAP machine uncomfortable or disruptive.

Is an Oral Appliance Right for You?

If you or your child has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep study can help determine the best path forward. Sleep apnea symptoms that may indicate the need for an oral appliance include:

  • Loud or habitual snoring
  • Mouth breathing during sleep
  • Restlessness or frequent waking
  • Morning headaches or fatigue
  • Signs of poor oral health or jaw development in children

These symptoms often go hand-in-hand with sleep disorders. Our experienced team will conduct a full evaluation, review your diagnosis and sleep apnea treatment options, and recommend a customized solution.

Caring for Your Sleep Appliance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and effectiveness of your oral appliance. Here’s how to care for it at home:

Daily Cleaning

  • Rinse the appliance after each use
  • Gently brush with a soft toothbrush and mild soap
  • Avoid using toothpaste, which can be abrasive

Storage Tips

  • Keep the appliance in its case when not in use
  • Store it in a dry, cool location away from heat or sunlight

Handle With Care

  • Encourage children to treat the appliance gently
  • Inspect for cracks or wear during your routine cleaning

Regular check-ins at our dental office help ensure your appliance fits properly and continues to deliver effective treatment.

Children and Oral Appliance Therapy

For children, early intervention can support long-term health outcomes. We provide early intervention options tailored to each child’s needs, including children’s sleep apnea treatment in Des Moines. When appropriate, we may recommend growth-guidance appliances like Myobrace® or Healthystart® as part of a personalized plan.

We may occasionally recommend growth-guidance appliances like Myobrace® or Healthystart® when appropriate as part of a child’s care, though we always assess suitability on a case-by-case basis.

What to Expect from Treatment

Our dental sleep medicine services in Des Moines focuses on creating a comprehensive care plan tailored to your needs. Here’s what your journey may look like:

  • Initial consultation and assessment with a sleep-focused dentist
  • Custom fitting and delivery of your oral appliance
  • Follow-up visits to monitor progress and make adjustments
  • Ongoing communication to ensure improvements in sleep and quality of life

We often incorporate these appliances into broader sleep medicine strategies alongside lifestyle guidance for optimal results.

Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep

With the right support, treating sleep apnea can be simple, comfortable, and highly effective. Our team at Lawson Dentistry is here to help you or your child achieve more restful sleep, better focus, and improved well-being with the help of advanced oral appliance therapy Des Moines patients trust.

Contact us today at (515) 278-4366 to take the first step toward better nights and brighter mornings.