While many people refer to them as mouth guards, the proper term is custom oral appliance, and that difference matters. Unlike over-the-counter guards made for sports or teeth grinding, these devices are professionally made by a dentist and tailored to your unique needs. Only a custom oral appliance can reposition your jaw to keep the airway open and effectively treat sleep apnea.
What Is a Custom Mouth Guard for Sleep Apnea?
Our team designs oral appliances that are sometimes called mouth guards, but they’re actually custom sleep apnea devices. Each appliance is made to gently shift your jaw into a position that keeps your airway from collapsing during sleep. This promotes better airflow, reduces snoring, and helps you get more restful sleep. Unlike these custom devices, store-bought mouth guards aren’t made to support the airway. While they may help with teeth grinding, they won’t treat the root cause of sleep apnea.
Store-bought mouth guards, on the other hand, are mass-produced and often marketed as “boil and bite” solutions. While inexpensive, they lack the precision and durability necessary to address sleep apnea effectively.
Key Benefits of Custom Mouth Guards
1. Superior Fit and Comfort
Custom appliances are tailored to your bite and jaw, making them comfortable to wear nightly. Store-bought guards, which are not designed specifically to treat the causes of sleep apnea, can feel bulky, slip during sleep, or cause jaw soreness.
2. Effective Sleep Apnea Treatment
A custom device does more than just reduce snoring — it corrects the underlying airway obstruction. By carefully repositioning your jaw, a custom oral appliance ensures your breathing passages stay open all night. This targeted approach helps improve oxygen flow, reduces daytime fatigue, and supports overall health.
3. Durability and Safety
Custom devices are made from medical-grade dental materials that last for years. Generic guards tend to wear down quickly or lose shape, and they can even cause bite problems if worn long-term.
4. Personalized Support and Adjustments
With a custom device, you'll receive ongoing care. Dr. Pizzi monitors your progress and adjusts your appliance when needed to ensure it continues to work effectively.
Why Addressing Sleep Apnea Matters
Untreated sleep apnea increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and chronic fatigue. It can also contribute to mood changes, memory issues, and decreased quality of life. By investing in a custom oral appliance, you’re not only improving your nightly rest — you’re protecting your long-term health.
Taking the Next Step Toward Better Sleep in Del Mar
If you’ve been struggling with snoring, daytime drowsiness, or a CPAP machine you can’t tolerate, a custom mouth guard could be the solution you’ve been looking for. At Del Mar Dental Studio, we focus on airway dentistry and sleep apnea treatment, helping patients breathe easier and live healthier.
Don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to your health. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Todd Pizzi at Del Mar Dental Studio to learn how a custom oral appliance can transform your nights and protect your overall wellness. Call us today at (858) 755-0187 to get started on your path to better sleep and a healthier life in Del Mar.
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