Sleep Apnea Treatment in New Westminster, BC
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition in which the airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, interrupting breathing and reducing oxygen levels in the blood. It is associated with increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and daytime fatigue. Treating it can genuinely change how you feel day to day.
At Foundation Dental in New Westminster, we provide custom oral appliance therapy for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and those who have found CPAP therapy difficult to tolerate. Our oral appliances are also highly effective for primary snoring.
What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?
An oral appliance for sleep apnea is a custom-fitted device - similar in appearance to a sports mouthguard - worn during sleep. It works by gently repositioning the lower jaw forward, which opens the airway and prevents the soft tissue collapse that causes obstruction and snoring.
Oral appliances are small, portable, silent, and require no electricity - which makes them significantly more convenient for many patients than CPAP therapy. Most patients adapt to wearing one within 1 to 2 weeks and describe it as a comfortable part of their nightly routine.
Who Is a Candidate for an Oral Appliance?
Patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea confirmed by a sleep study
CPAP-intolerant patients - those who find the mask, pressure, or noise difficult
Patients with primary snoring affecting their quality of life or their partner's sleep
Patients who travel frequently and want a simpler alternative to CPAP equipment
For severe sleep apnea, CPAP remains the gold-standard treatment. An oral appliance may complement CPAP or serve as a travel backup. We will refer you to a sleep physician if you have not yet had a diagnostic sleep study.
The Oral Appliance Process at Foundation Dental
1 - Consultation and assessment
We review your sleep study results (if available), assess your jaw joint health and bite, and determine whether oral appliance therapy is the right fit for you.
2 - Digital scan
We capture a precise record of your teeth and bite using our iTero scanner - no messy impressions.
3 - Custom fabrication
Your appliance is custom-made by a dental laboratory to fit your teeth precisely and achieve the optimal jaw position for your airway.
4 - Fitting and adjustment
We fit the appliance, walk you through how to use and clean it, and make fine adjustments over the following weeks to maximize comfort and effectiveness.
5 - Follow-up
We recommend a follow-up sleep study 8 to 12 weeks after fitting to confirm the appliance is working well for you. Ongoing annual check-ins are recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions - Sleep Apnea
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For diagnosed sleep apnea, yes — a sleep study establishes the severity of your condition and forms the basis for treatment. Home sleep study referrals are available through your family doctor.
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For mild to moderate OSA, oral appliances achieve comparable results to CPAP in most patients, with significantly better long-term compliance because patients are more likely to wear them consistently.
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A well-maintained oral appliance typically lasts 3 to 5 years. Annual check-ups allow us to monitor fit and effectiveness.
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Many extended health insurance plans and WorkSafeBC cover oral appliances for diagnosed sleep apnea. We will help you work through your coverage at your consultation.
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Yes. Oral appliances are highly effective at reducing or eliminating primary snoring. A sleep study is recommended to rule out underlying apnea if snoring is significant.
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Some patients experience temporary jaw tenderness, increased saliva, or minor bite changes in the first few weeks. These are monitored and adjustments are made as needed. Long-term side effects are uncommon when the appliance is properly fitted and maintained.
Ready for better sleep?
Give us a call at 778-561-5887 or book now to request an appointment directly.
885 Carnarvon St
New Westminster, BC V3M 1G2
(778) 561-5887
info@foundationdental.ca