Oral Sleep Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea in Seattle & Bellevue
A Comfortable, Effective CPAP Alternative for Treating Sleep Apnea
At Washington Center for Sleep, we specialize in custom oral appliances — a simple, non-invasive solution for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and loud snoring. These devices are worn like a mouthguard during sleep and gently reposition your jaw to keep your airway open.
What Is an Oral Sleep Appliance?
An oral sleep appliance is a custom-fitted medical device that helps prevent airway collapse while you sleep. Unlike a CPAP machine, which uses forced air, an oral appliance works by repositioning your lower jaw and tongue to keep your airway clear and reduce obstruction.
These appliances are:
Quiet and compact (no tubes or masks)
Easy to travel with
Covered by most medical insurance and Medicare
Effective for mild to moderate sleep apnea, and even for severe cases when CPAP isn’t tolerated
Each appliance is personally fitted to your mouth by a qualified sleep dentist, ensuring comfort and effectiveness.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral appliance therapy is a great option for patients who:
Have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
Struggle to use or tolerate CPAP machines
Travel frequently and need a portable solution
Have loud snoring that affects their partner or sleep quality
Want a non-invasive treatment without surgery
Not sure if you have sleep apnea? We also offer home sleep testing to help you get diagnosed quickly and conveniently.
How Does Oral Appliance Therapy Compare to CPAP?
While CPAP is considered the “gold standard,” studies show that oral appliances are just as effective — especially when patients actually use them.
| Feature | CPAP | Oral Appliance |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Often uncomfortable | Slim & Comfortable |
| Size | Bulky with mask/tubes | Small & portable |
| Travel | Can be difficult to bring | Easy to take anywhere |
| Compliance | Low for many patients | High patient satisfaction |
For patients with mild to moderate OSA, oral appliances can provide results comparable to CPAP — and most people find them far easier to use.
Is an Oral Sleep Appliance Covered by Insurance or Medicare?
Yes — oral appliances for sleep apnea are considered a medical treatment, not dental, so they are:
Covered by most medical insurance plans
Covered by Medicare (we are a Medicare DME provider)
Often reimbursed with little or no out-of-pocket cost
We verify your benefits before treatment and walk you through the entire process. Our team handles all medical documentation, authorizations, and billing to make the process stress-free.
Ready to Breathe Better at Night?
If you're tired of struggling with CPAP or just want to find a quiet, effective way to sleep better, we’re here to help. Book a consultation with our sleep dentist in Seattle or Bellevue to see if oral appliance therapy is right for you.
Oral Sleep Appliance Therapy – FAQs
1. Are oral appliances as effective as CPAP?
Yes — for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliances are often just as effective as CPAP, especially when worn consistently.
2. Is the appliance uncomfortable or bulky?
No. Custom oral sleep appliances are small, low-profile, and designed to be comfortable — more like a retainer than a mouthguard.
3. Will my insurance cover the appliance?
In most cases, yes. Oral appliances for sleep apnea are covered by medical insurance (not dental), including Medicare, with proper documentation and diagnosis.
4. How long does it take to get fitted?
We can usually fit you for an appliance in one quick visit, and you’ll receive it within 2–3 weeks after custom fabrication.
5. What if I clench or grind my teeth?
Oral appliances can be designed to protect against grinding and clenching, and many patients report reduced symptoms after wearing one.