Sleep Apnea & Snoring Treatment in Clearwater, FL
Rest Easier with Custom Oral Appliance Therapy
Loud snoring, restless sleep, and waking up tired can be more than just frustrating—they may be signs of sleep apnea, a serious condition that affects your breathing and overall health. At Prime Dental Care in Clearwater, we offer personalized, non-CPAP solutions for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic snoring using custom oral appliances and snore guards.
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea or suspect you’re at risk, Dr. Nan Zhong can help you breathe better, sleep more deeply, and wake up feeling truly rested.
Why Choose Prime Dental Care for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
- Comfortable, discreet oral appliances designed for nightly wear
- Alternative to CPAP for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- Expertise in bite, jaw position, and airway alignment
- Collaborative approach with your physician or sleep specialist
- Integration with TMJ therapy for overlapping symptoms
We provide safe, proven solutions for patients seeking a quieter, healthier night’s sleep without bulky machines or surgical intervention.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition in which the airway becomes repeatedly blocked during sleep, causing breathing to stop and start. These pauses can occur dozens—or even hundreds—of times per night, often without the person realizing it.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
- Daytime fatigue or trouble concentrating
- Dry mouth or headaches upon waking
- Irritability or mood swings
- Difficulty staying asleep or falling asleep
Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and other serious health issues.
Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea
Oral appliances are small, custom-fitted devices worn in the mouth during sleep. They work by gently repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open.
This treatment is:
- Non-invasive and easy to wear
- Quiet, unlike CPAP machines
- Portable for travel and convenient to maintain
- Effective for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or CPAP intolerance
We partner with your sleep physician to ensure the appliance supports your prescribed treatment plan and may refer you for a sleep study if needed.
Snore Guards for Chronic Snoring
Not every case of snoring is tied to sleep apnea. Some patients snore due to jaw positioning, soft palate vibration, or nasal issues. A custom snore guard can reposition the jaw and tongue to reduce or eliminate snoring without impacting airflow or oxygen levels.
Snore guards are ideal if:
- You snore but don’t have sleep apnea
- You’ve been told you snore loudly or disturb your partner’s sleep
- You want a quiet, low-maintenance solution to snoring
- You prefer not to use CPAP or over-the-counter devices
What to Expect from Sleep Apnea Treatment
- Consultation and Screening
We evaluate your symptoms, review any existing diagnosis, and assess your airway, jaw, and sleep history. - Impressions and Appliance Design
If oral appliance therapy is appropriate, we take digital or physical impressions to craft a custom device. - Fitting and Adjustment
Your appliance is fitted to ensure comfort, effectiveness, and proper jaw alignment. - Follow-Up and Monitoring
We check for comfort and effectiveness at follow-up visits and coordinate with your sleep physician when needed.
If your symptoms are related to bite or joint problems, we may also recommend neuromuscular therapy to support long-term success.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
- Better sleep and improved energy during the day
- Reduces or eliminates snoring
- Convenient and easy to use
- Comfortable alternative to CPAP
- Helps reduce long-term health risks associated with untreated sleep apnea
For patients with dental anxiety, we also offer oral sedation during the fitting or adjustment process if desired.
FAQs About Sleep Apnea & Snoring Treatment
Is an oral appliance as effective as CPAP?
For mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliances can be just as effective and are often preferred for comfort and convenience.
Do I need a sleep study first?
Yes. We require a formal diagnosis of sleep apnea before starting oral appliance therapy. If you haven’t had one, we can refer you to a trusted local sleep specialist.
Will insurance cover a sleep appliance?
Some medical insurance plans may cover oral appliance therapy for diagnosed sleep apnea. We also offer CareCredit and Sunbit financing and cost-saving options through our Prime Smile Club.
Can snoring be treated without a sleep apnea diagnosis?
Yes. If you snore but don’t have sleep apnea, a custom snore guard may significantly improve sleep quality for you and your partner.
How long does it take to get used to wearing the appliance?
Most patients adjust within a few nights to a week. The device is small and custom-fitted, so comfort improves quickly.
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Schedule a Sleep Apnea or Snoring Consultation in Clearwater
Sleep shouldn’t leave you feeling exhausted. At Prime Dental Care, we offer discreet, comfortable solutions for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. We welcome patients from Clearwater, Safety Harbor, Palm Harbor, Largo, Dunedin, Belleair, and Tampa.