Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Treatment

Custom-fitted mouthguards for snoring are made to the specific shape of your teeth, bite and jaw position. As a result, they tend to sit more securely and comfortably than generic, boil-and-bite guards ordered online.

What's Different About a Custom Appliance?

A dentist-fitted custom appliance is designed around your own dental impressions, so it's shaped precisely to your mouth. This allows for controlled, incremental adjustment of jaw position over time, as well as more effective monitoring throughout treatment. 

By contrast, over-the-counter solutions are typically one-size-fits-most and rely on you softening and biting into the material yourself. This typically results in a bulkier, less precise fit that can shift while you sleep, with no professional oversight or adjustments.

Why Fit Matters

Because mouthguards work by holding the jaw in a particular position while you sleep, an imprecise or unstable fit can cause discomfort and make the device less effective. A well-fitted appliance is easier to tolerate night after night, and usually yields more consistent results.

Getting a Proper Assessment

Before choosing any appliance, it's worth having your bite, jaw and airway assessed by a dentist to determine your exact needs. Individual results vary, and a custom fit is only one part of an appropriate treatment plan.

Custom Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Solutions in West Lakes

If you’re in West Lakes and want to know whether a custom-fitted mouthguard is appropriate for you, contact Dr Caleb Harvie and the Providence Dental Care team to arrange an assessment.

Most patients adapt well, but any appliance that holds the lower jaw forward can affect the bite over time.

That is why we review you properly.

We may also provide a small morning aligner or bite guide to help your jaw settle back into its usual position after wearing the appliance overnight.

The goal is to improve your sleep while also protecting your teeth, jaw joints, and bite.

A mandibular advancement splint needs stable teeth to hold onto.

If you have missing teeth, dentures, loose teeth, gum disease, or complex dental work, we will assess whether an appliance can be made safely.

Some patients are suitable. Some are not. We will give you a clear answer.

A mandibular advancement splint works while you wear it.

For many people with snoring or mild to moderate sleep apnoea, it can make a significant difference. For others, it may reduce symptoms but still need to be part of a broader sleep plan.

The most important thing is finding a treatment that is appropriate and that you can actually use consistently.

With good habits and under the right conditions, your oral appliance can last for several years. 

Of course, the lifespan of your dental sleep appliance (or mandibular advancement splint) depends on a few factors. 

Issues that may shorten the lifespan of your custom dental appliance include:

• Improper Storage: Storing your appliance in a hot climate may cause damage. Be sure to keep it in the proper case and away from the sun or heat.
• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Teeth grinding puts stress on your device and teeth.
• Cleaning Practices: Using abrasive cleaners on your device can cause damage or early wear. Your dentist in West Lakes will discuss the best methods for keeping your device free from bacteria. Typically, a soft toothbrush and mild antibacterial soap are sufficient, but make sure the water is not hot. You can also soak your appliance in a denture bath.

About Sleep Apnoea Treatment in West Lakes

We have partnered with local sleep practitioners to assess your level and type of sleep apnoea thoroughly. We also examine your jaw and airway risks to determine whether appliance therapy is a safe and practical solution. 

If you’re a good candidate for appliance therapy, your dentist creates a custom splint to be worn at night. 

Are You Ready to Book a Sleep Study? 

To learn more or to get started, we encourage your call. You can also book online.