Snoring and Sleep Apnoea
Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Appliances at Ferny Smiles Dental
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)?
OSA is a condition where the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep. This often occurs when the soft tissues of the throat collapse, interrupting airflow — sometimes many times throughout the night.
This disruption to breathing can lead to reduced oxygen levels, disturbed sleep patterns, and a wide range of potential health impacts. Many individuals with OSA are unaware they have it until a partner notices signs like snoring or pauses in breathing.
Common signs and symptoms may include:
- Frequent, loud snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Morning headaches or dry mouth
- Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes or irritability
Without appropriate treatment, OSA may contribute to elevated blood pressure, cardiovascular complications, and impaired daily functioning.
Getting a Diagnosis and Referral
Before treatment can begin, a formal diagnosis is required. This is typically obtained through a sleep study (polysomnography), which can be arranged through your GP or sleep specialist.
If you have not yet undergone a sleep study, our team can assist with referrals to the appropriate healthcare providers. We can also help arrange a convenient home sleep study with reduced waiting times, where appropriate. The study is reviewed by an Australian sleep respiratory specialist, who will provide a detailed report.
Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, and if oral appliance therapy is considered suitable, we will guide you through the next steps with care and clarity.
What Is a Dental Sleep Appliance?
A Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS) is a small, custom-made oral device worn during sleep. It works by gently holding the lower jaw in a forward position, helping to prevent airway collapse and promote uninterrupted breathing throughout the night.
These appliances are:
- Custom-made to fit your unique dental structure
- Compact, comfortable, and easy to wear
- Quiet — no hoses, pumps, or electrical components
- A well-tolerated alternative for patients unable to use CPAP therapy
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
For patients with primary snoring or mild to moderate OSA, a custom dental sleep appliance can offer several advantages:
- Personalised, secure fit
- Non-invasive and easy to adjust
- Discreet and travel-friendly
- May reduce snoring and improve sleep quality
- Drug-free management option
- Can help support better mood, energy, and concentration during the day
Optimal results depend on correct diagnosis, accurate fitting, and consistent use.
What to Expect During Treatment
- Initial Consultation
We’ll review your medical and dental history, discuss your symptoms, and evaluate any available sleep study results to determine suitability. - Digital Scans or Impressions
We’ll take detailed digital scans or impressions of your teeth and bite to design your custom appliance. - Fitting and Instructions
Once your device is ready, we’ll ensure it fits comfortably and provide clear instructions on use, storage, and hygiene. - Follow-Up and Review
We’ll monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. In some cases, a repeat sleep study may be recommended to assess treatment success. - Collaborative, Multidisciplinary Care
We work closely with GPs and sleep physicians to ensure your care is well-coordinated and clinically appropriate. If oral appliance therapy isn’t suitable, we’ll refer you to the appropriate specialists for further assessment — ensuring your health always comes first.