Dental Appliances That Can Help You Get a Good Night's Sleep

If you wake up feeling tired, no matter how early you went to bed, your sleep quality (not just sleep time) may be the issue. Snoring, teeth grinding, jaw tensions, and sleep apnea can all disrupt rest, often without you realizing it. Fortunately, we’re here to help. 

Our expert team, led by Charley Cheney, DMD, at Fayette Dental Group in Fayetteville, Georgia, offers dental sleep appliances. These custom-made devices improve breathing, reduce strain, and protect your teeth while you sleep. 

For many people, they’re a comfortable and non-invasive way to finally get the restorative sleep their body needs. Here’s a closer look at how these appliances work and who they can help. 

How dental appliances improve sleep

Dental sleep appliances work by gently repositioning your jaw, tongue, or teeth to keep your airway open and your jaw relaxed during sleep. Unlike bulky machines or medications, these devices are discreet, quiet, and custom-fitted to your mouth. They can help by: 

• Reducing airway collapse during sleep
• Improving airflow and oxygen levels
• Minimizing jaw clenching and grinding
• Decreasing muscle tension in your face and neck
• Protecting teeth from wear and damage 

Better airflow and less tension mean deeper and more restorative sleep for you and anyone sharing your bed. 

Dental appliances for sleep apnea and snoring

One of the most common reasons people seek dental sleep appliances is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or chronic snoring. These issues occur when the airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep. 

Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) are the most widely used dental appliances for sleep-related breathing issues. They work by: 

• Gently moving your lower jaw forward
• Preventing your tongue from collapsing backward
• Keeping the airway open throughout the night 

For many people, they offer effective relief without hoses, masks, or noise. 

Dental appliances for teeth grinding (bruxism)

If you grind or clench your teeth at night, you may wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or worn-down teeth, sometimes without realizing the cause. Custom night guards protect your teeth and reduce strain on your jaw muscles. Benefits include: 

• Preventing tooth damage and fractures
• Reducing jaw and facial pain
• Minimizing morning headaches
• Protecting dental work like crowns or veneers

While they don’t stop grinding entirely, night guards act as a protective barrier that helps your jaw relax and prevents long-term damage. 

Appliances for jaw alignment and TMJ-related sleep issues 

Jaw misalignment for TMJ disorders can interfere with sleep by causing pain, tension, and restricted movement. TMJ appliances are designed to: 

• Improve jaw positioning
• Reduce joint strain
• Relax overactive jaw muscles
• Alleviate facial and neck pain 

Is a dental sleep appliance right for you? 

You may benefit from a dental sleep appliance if you: 

• Snore regularly
• Have mild to moderate sleep apnea 
• Can’t tolerate CPAP therapy
• Grind or clench your teeth
• Wake up with jaw pain or headaches
• Feel tired despite getting enough sleep 

Our expert team can help determine which option fits your needs and whether additional sleep testing is recommended. 

Quality sleep is essential for your health, mood, and daily performance. If restlessness is becoming the norm, a simple dental solution may be the key to finally getting the deep and restorative sleep you deserve. 

To learn more, call us at 770-683-2000 or use our online booking tool to request an appointment with Dr. Cheney today!