Sleep Apnea

Dr. Lockhart has been certified by the American Academy of Sleep Disorder Disciplines to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with a custom-made oral appliance.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the air we breathe in while we are sleeping gets disrupted or blocked and our bodies are deprived of the oxygen we so desperately need. OSA often goes undetected because we are asleep and are unaware of the toll it takes on our bodies. Some physical or medical conditions that can contribute to sleep apnea include the following:

  • Nostril structure issues
  • Premature birth
  • Certain genetic disorders
  • Obesity
  • Neuromuscular conditions
  • Kidney or heart failure

What Happens When Sleep Apnea Goes Untreated?

Severe sleep apnea, when left untreated, can take more years off our lives than smoking cigarettes does. Untreated sleep apnea causes a lower oxygen level in your blood. Other serious consequences include:

  • Memory problems
  • Weight gain
  • Impotence
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Frequent headaches
  • High blood pressure
  • Risk of heart attack

How Can I Recognize Sleep Apnea?

The heart and brain are two very important organs that may be seriously impacted by untreated OSA. Common signs of OSA include: Snoring

  • Gastric reflux
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Morning headaches
  • Teeth grinding at night
  • Family history of sleep apnea

The most common way to determine if someone has OSA is a sleep test. Sleep tests may be done in a lab and monitored by a technician overnight, or you can do one in the comfort of your own bed. Regular visits to your dentist are also helpful. Dr. Lockhard can evaluate your oral tissue during your exam and recognize early signs of sleep apnea.

What Are My Options for Treating Sleep Apnea?

The two most common therapies for treating OSA are:

  • CPAP or a BiPAP machine
  • Oral appliance therapy

An OSA occlusal appliance is a custom-made appliance that fits in your mouth and is worn at night. The device gently pushes your lower jaw forward just enough to help keep your airway open at night which promotes positive airway pressure and keeps continuous airflow to our bodies while we sleep.

Dr. Lockhart is trained and certified to make custom-fitted OSA appliances and to follow-up by testing the appliance to verify that it is functioning properly.

Sleep Apnea FAQs

Sleep apnea doesn't just affect sleep — it can influence your energy, mood, heart health, and overall quality of life. If you're curious about how dental care and sleep apnea intersect, you're not alone. Below are common questions patients ask when exploring treatment options, especially oral appliance therapy.

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1Can a dentist tell if I have sleep apnea?
A dentist can identify signs that suggest sleep apnea — like worn teeth, a scalloped tongue, a retruded jaw, or other airway issues — but a definitive diagnosis can't be made during a dental exam alone. We look for risk factors and patterns that indicate the possibility, then work with your physician to confirm the diagnosis and develop an effective care plan.
2What is an oral sleep apnea appliance?
An oral appliance is a custom-made device worn in the mouth during sleep. It gently repositions your jaw and tongue to help keep your airway open, reducing the episodes of breathing pauses that characterize obstructive sleep apnea. It's a comfortable alternative many patients prefer over traditional therapy.
3How long do oral appliances take to work?
Once fitted, many patients notice improvements within a few nights, but it can take several weeks for your body to adjust and for symptoms to decrease significantly. Regular follow-ups help us fine-tune the fit and function so you get the most benefit.
4Can an oral appliance replace a CPAP?
Yes — for some patients. While CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines are highly effective, many individuals find them uncomfortable or difficult to use consistently. A custom oral appliance can be an excellent alternative for mild to moderate sleep apnea or for those who cannot tolerate CPAP. The right choice depends on your specific condition and needs.
5Do I still need to see a doctor if my dentist makes me an appliance?
Yes. Treating sleep apnea is a team effort. Your physician or sleep specialist confirms the diagnosis, interprets your sleep study results, and helps coordinate care. We collaborate closely to ensure your appliance fits into a broader, medically sound treatment plan.
6Will I still need to complete a sleep study?
If you haven't had one yet, yes — a sleep study (either in-lab or home-based) is essential for diagnosing sleep apnea and determining its severity. The results guide both medical and dental treatment decisions and allow us to track progress after therapy begins.
7What happens if my symptoms don't improve?
If symptoms persist after using an oral appliance, we'll reassess the fit, adjust the device, and communicate with your physician to explore additional or alternative treatment options. Some patients benefit from combination therapy or further evaluation to address underlying factors.
If you're ready to explore how dental care can help your sleep apnea, call London Dental Care today to schedule your consultation.