Can sleep apnea be treated by a dentist?

Sleep apnea is a common yet serious condition that affects millions of people. It’s characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, which can lead to fatigue, snoring, and even long-term health problems if left untreated.

Most people think sleep apnea treatment involves doctors or sleep specialists—but did you know that dentists can also play a crucial role? In this blog, we’ll explore how dentists can help manage sleep apnea and what to expect from dental treatments.

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. There are three types:

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Caused by a physical blockage of the airway, usually when throat muscles relax.
• Central Sleep Apnea: Caused by the brain failing to send proper signals to muscles controlling breathing.
• Mixed Sleep Apnea: A combination of both obstructive and central types.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is by far the most common. It often leads to:

• Loud snoring and gasping for air
• Morning headaches and dry mouth
• Daytime fatigue and trouble concentrating
• Increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes

How Can a Dentist Help Treat Sleep Apnea?

So, can sleep apnea be treated by a dentist? The answer is yes—for certain cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Dentists trained in sleep dentistry can create custom oral appliances, also known as mandibular advancement devices (MADs). These devices gently reposition the lower jaw and tongue during sleep, keeping the airway open and reducing the likelihood of airway collapse.

Compared to CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy, oral appliances are:

• Less invasive and more comfortable
• Easier to travel with
• Quieter and often preferred by patients with mild to moderate OSA

At Mint Dental, we work closely with sleep physicians to ensure the appliance is tailored to your unique needs and your sleep apnea is properly diagnosed and managed.

Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Treatment of Sleep Apnea?

Oral appliance therapy is best suited for patients who:


✅ Have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
✅ Cannot tolerate or prefer not to use CPAP therapy
✅ Have undergone a sleep study (home or lab) and received a physician’s diagnosis
✅ Prefer a portable, less invasive option for sleep apnea management

It’s important to note that severe OSA and central sleep apnea typically require more advanced treatments coordinated by sleep specialists. Dentists can complement medical care but cannot treat every case.

Benefits of Dentist-Managed Sleep Apnea Treatment

Oral appliance therapy offers several advantages for those struggling with mild to moderate OSA:

• Comfortable and less bulky than CPAP machines
• Easier to travel with—fits easily in a small case
• Reduces snoring and breathing interruptions
• Improves sleep quality and reduces daytime sleepiness
• Provides a quieter, non-invasive option for sleep apnea management

With a custom-fitted device from Mint Dental, you can experience better sleep and improved overall health.

Talk to Mint Dental About Sleep Apnea Solutions

If you or someone you know suffers from snoring, daytime fatigue, or has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, don’t wait. Mint Dental can help with custom oral appliance therapy designed to keep your airway open and ensure restful sleep.

 Contact us to schedule a consultation at one of our four locations:

• Lenexa, KS
• Shawnee, KS
• Independence, MO
• Lee’s Summit, MO

Better sleep means a better way of life. Reach out today!