Snoring and Sleep Apnoea
Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Appliances at Ferny Hills Dental
Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)
OSA is a condition where the airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep, often due to the soft tissues of the throat collapsing. These blockages can cause repeated interruptions to breathing — sometimes hundreds of times a night. This can lead to fragmented sleep, reduced oxygen levels, and a range of systemic health concerns.
Many people with sleep apnoea are unaware they have it. It’s often first recognised by a partner who notices loud snoring, choking sounds, or pauses in breathing during the night.
Common signs and symptoms include:Loud or chronic snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Excessive daytime fatigue
Difficulty concentrating or poor memory - Irritability or mood changes
- Morning headaches or dry mouth
If left untreated, OSA can contribute to cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, and impaired daytime functioning. It is essential to seek professional assessment to determine the right management option.
Diagnosis and Referrals
Before proceeding with any form of treatment for sleep apnoea, a formal diagnosis is required. This is typically obtained via a sleep study (polysomnography), which may be arranged through your GP or a specialist sleep physician. Our team at Ferny Hills Dental can assist with referrals if you have not yet undergone a sleep study.
Once your diagnosis is confirmed, and if your condition is suitable for oral appliance therapy, we’ll guide you through the next steps.
What Is a Dental Sleep Appliance?
A dental sleep appliance — often called a Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS) — is a small, custom-fitted device that is worn in the mouth during sleep. It works by gently repositioning the lower jaw forward, helping to keep the airway open and reduce airway collapse.
These appliances are:
- Tailored specifically to your dental and jaw structure
- Non-invasive and easy to wear
- Silent and free from external machinery or tubing
- Ideal for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
A custom oral appliance offers several advantages for eligible patients with mild to moderate OSA or primary snoring:
- Comfortable, personalised fit
- Quiet and discreet
- Portable for travel
- Medication-free
- Helps improve sleep quality and reduce snoring
- May lead to improved daytime alertness and mood
The effectiveness of your appliance depends on accurate diagnosis, precise fitting, and ongoing monitoring.
What to Expect During Treatment
- Initial Consultation
We’ll review your medical and dental history, assess your symptoms, and evaluate any sleep study results. This helps us determine if an oral appliance is appropriate for your case. - Digital Scans or Impressions
If suitable, we’ll take detailed impressions or digital scans of your teeth and jaw alignment to create your custom device. - Appliance Fitting
Once your appliance is ready, we’ll ensure it fits comfortably and review how to insert, remove, and clean it. Adjustments may be made to optimise comfort and function. - Follow-Up and Review
We schedule follow-up visits to ensure the appliance is working effectively. In some cases, a follow-up sleep study may be recommended to assess its success. - Collaborative Care
We work closely with local sleep physicians and your general practitioner to ensure your treatment is coordinated, safe, and aligned with your broader health plan. If your condition is not suitable for oral appliance therapy, we’ll help guide you to the right specialist support.
Frequently Asked Questions
