Sleep Apnea and Oral Appliance Therapy: A Better Night’s Sleep Starts Here
If you snore loudly, wake up gasping, or feel groggy and foggy every morning, you might be one of the millions silently suffering from sleep apnea. It doesn’t just rob you of rest; it impacts your heart, brain, and overall well-being.
At Lisa Siddall, DDS, in Lake Leelanau, we help patients sleep and breathe better, without the noise or discomfort of a CPAP machine. Our solution? Custom, comfortable oral appliance therapy, designed to support your body’s natural breathing so you can finally wake up refreshed.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition where your breathing stops and starts repeatedly while you sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when your airway becomes blocked. Central and mixed sleep apnea involve more complex disruptions in brain signaling or a combination of causes.
Common Signs Include:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Daytime fatigue or difficulty concentrating
- Morning headaches
Untreated sleep apnea can increase your risk for high blood pressure, heart problems, and other serious health concerns.
A CPAP Alternative That Works: Oral Appliance Therapy
For many patients, CPAP machines feel too intrusive or uncomfortable. That’s where oral appliance therapy (OAT) comes in.
How It Works
Oral appliances are small, custom-made devices worn during sleep. They gently reposition the jaw or tongue to keep your airway open.
We offer:
- Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) – move the jaw slightly forward
- Tongue-Retaining Devices (TRDs) – hold the tongue in place to prevent obstruction
Why Patients Love Oral Appliances:
- Comfortable and easy to wear
- Quiet, no noise like CPAP
- Portable for travel
- Easy to clean and care for
“Many of my patients tell me they finally sleep through the night, and so do their partners,” says Dr. Siddall. “It’s a simple device, but it can truly change lives.”
Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right for You?
Oral appliances are an excellent option for patients who:
- Have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- Struggle to use or tolerate CPAP
- Experience loud snoring that disrupts sleep
- Want a low-maintenance, discreet solution
If you’ve already had a sleep study or been diagnosed, at Lisa Siddall, DDS, we’ll coordinate with your sleep physician to ensure you receive the most effective care. If you’re still unsure, we can help you explore next steps toward diagnosis.
What to Expect from Treatment
- Consultation & Exam – We review your sleep history and assess your oral and airway structure.
- Custom Fit – Your appliance is designed specifically for your mouth for a snug, comfortable fit.
- Follow-Ups – We adjust as needed and ensure long-term success.
- Ongoing Care – We’ll show you how to clean and maintain your appliance for durability and hygiene.
Explore our sleep apnea services here.
Solea® Sleep: A Breakthrough in Snoring Relief
In addition to oral appliances, Dr. Siddall is proud to offer Solea® Sleep therapy, a quick, non-invasive laser treatment that tightens collagen in the soft palate to reduce snoring and improve airflow.
- Only takes five minutes per session
- No downtime or discomfort
- Results are often noticeable the first night
Solea® Sleep complements oral appliance therapy or may be used on its own for patients experiencing primary snoring without apnea. It’s a revolutionary step forward in helping patients (and their partners) get better sleep.
Why Choose Dr. Lisa Siddall?
At our practice, we treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.
- Holistic Philosophy: We prioritize safe, conservative solutions that support your body’s natural function
- Compassionate, One-on-One Care: You’re heard, never rushed
- Advanced Dental Technology: Including digital impressions and laser-assisted treatments
- Clear Communication: We work with your sleep specialist, primary care provider, or insurance to keep things seamless
“You’re more than a diagnosis. Our goal is to help you wake up with energy, clarity, and the health you deserve,” adds Dr. Lisa Siddall.
Better Sleep, Better Health
Treating sleep apnea can lead to:
- Better focus and daytime energy
- A healthier heart and blood pressure
- Improved mood and overall well-being
You deserve to wake up refreshed.
Take the First Step Today
If you’re tired of CPAP or suspect sleep apnea is affecting your life, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lisa Siddall. Let’s create a plan for better sleep, better health, and a better you.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
