Written by Dr. Farshid Naghibi, DDS, Orofacial pain specialist, 2025
Are you constantly battling fatigue, loud snoring, or interruptions in your sleep? If you’re in Everett, WA, or the surrounding areas like Silver Lake, Snohomish, Bothell, Mill Creek, Lynnwood, Marysville, or Arlington, and suspect you might have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a groundbreaking solution could be within reach: oral sleep appliances. These custom devices offer an effective way to manage OSA and dramatically improve your sleep quality.
At Align Choice Orthodontics, led by the highly specialized Dr. Farshid Naghibi, DDS, we offer advanced oral sleep appliance therapy as a comfortable and effective alternative to traditional CPAP machines. Dr. Naghibi’s unique expertise, born from extensive training at the UCLA School of Dentistry at the Orofacial Pain & Dental Sleep Medicine Clinic, positions him as your trusted partner in achieving healthier, more restorative sleep.
Meet Dr. Farshid Naghibi: Your Expert in Sleep and Orofacial Health
Dr. Farshid Naghibi, DDS, is not just any dentist. He is a board-certified orofacial pain specialist in Everett and Mill Creek, WA, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Orofacial Pain, specializing in the intricate connection between orofacial pain, TMJ disorders, and sleep issues. His comprehensive training at UCLA equipped him with deep knowledge of oral sleep appliances, ensuring you receive care that addresses your specific needs from a holistic perspective.
As an expert in oral sleep appliance therapy, Dr. Naghibi provides cutting-edge solutions for patients grappling with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). His custom-fitted oral sleep appliances are meticulously designed to improve sleep quality and mitigate the significant health risks associated with OSA, empowering you and your loved ones to prioritize well-being and rest. This is a key aspect of OSA management.
Dr. Naghibi’s patient-centered approach means he collaborates closely with each individual, developing personalized treatment plans that cater to unique needs and goals. This includes offering solutions for TMJ orthotics (also known as splints) to alleviate discomfort, enhance jaw function, and realign the bite for optimal comfort. Understanding that oral health profoundly impacts overall well-being, Dr. Naghibi is committed to delivering compassionate care that truly improves your quality of life.
Understanding Oral Sleep Appliances: Your Path to Better Sleep and OSA Management
The journey to healthier sleep often begins with understanding your treatment options for OSA management. Here, we address your most frequent questions about oral sleep appliances at Align Choice Orthodontics.
The Critical Link: Loud Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, and conversely, some people with sleep apnea may not snore loudly. However, loud, chronic snoring, especially if it’s accompanied by gasping, choking, or observed pauses in breathing, is a hallmark sign of OSA.
Q1: What are Oral Sleep Appliances and who are they for?
A1: Oral sleep appliances offer an efficient treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), serving as a highly reliable alternative to traditional CPAP therapy for OSA management. This innovative approach utilizes a custom-made, removable oral sleep appliance – similar to a mouthguard – worn during sleep. The specialized dental device works to stabilize the tongue and, in some cases, gently reposition the jaw, ensuring an open airway to prevent the collapse of soft tissues associated with sleep apnea. Oral sleep appliances are an ideal solution for individuals diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA, especially those seeking a comfortable and convenient alternative to CPAP machines for OSA management. Our practice is proud to have Dr. Naghibi, a dentist with specialized training in orofacial pain from UCLA, where he also received extensive training in oral sleep appliances, bringing a unique and comprehensive understanding to your sleep apnea treatment.
Q2: How Do Oral Sleep Appliances Work to Manage OSA?
A2: At Align Choice Orthodontics in Everett, WA, and Mill Creek, WA, your journey to better sleep begins with a thorough examination to determine if oral sleep appliances are the right sleep apnea treatment for you. Once confirmed, our skilled team, led by Dr. Naghibi, meticulously crafts a personalized, custom-made oral sleep appliance. This comfortable dental device, akin to a mouthguard or orthodontic retainer, is designed to be worn nightly. Its core function is to prevent airway collapse, a common cause of difficulty breathing during sleep in OSA. By gently positioning your jaw forward and stabilizing your tongue, the appliance ensures a consistently open airway. Numerous medical studies confirm the efficacy of this dental appliance in effectively treating both Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and snoring, leading to improved breathing and more restorative sleep for our patients, thereby managing OSA.
Q3: What are the Types of Oral Sleep Appliances?
A3: While many different oral sleep appliances are available, all share the primary goal of effectively treating obstructive sleep apnea. Though their precise size and appearance may vary, our experienced team of professionals at Align Choice Orthodontics is best equipped to advise you on which specific dental appliance will be most suitable for your unique needs for OSA management. Generally, the majority of oral sleep appliances fall into two main categories:
- Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD), or Mandibular Repositioning Devices (MRDs): These oral sleep appliances are specifically designed to gently reposition your lower jaw into a forward and slightly downward position. This strategic placement helps keep your airways open throughout the night, preventing obstruction while you sleep.
- Tongue-Retaining Devices (TRDs): These are straightforward oral sleep appliances that work by holding your tongue in a forward position. By preventing the tongue from falling back, these devices also effectively keep the airways open, facilitating uninterrupted breathing.
Q4: How do I know if an Oral Sleep Appliance is right for me for OSA management?
A4: Oral sleep appliance therapy is typically recommended for individuals with mild to moderate OSA. If you experience symptoms like loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, daytime fatigue, morning headaches, or difficulty concentrating, you should consult with a dentist or sleep specialist. Our team at Align Choice Orthodontics can conduct an evaluation, which may include a sleep study, to determine the type and severity of your sleep apnea and if an oral sleep appliance is a suitable OSA management option for you.
Finding Expert Care: Align Choice Orthodontics in Everett & Mill Creek
Q5: Where can I find Oral Sleep Appliances in Everett, WA?
A5: For expert oral sleep appliances and comprehensive OSA management in Everett, WA, look no further than Align Choice Orthodontics. Our clinic, led by Dr. Naghibi – a dentist with specialized training from UCLA in both orofacial pain and oral sleep appliances – offers advanced sleep apnea treatment using custom-made oral appliances. We are dedicated to providing personalized care to help you achieve restful sleep and improve your overall well-being. You can learn more and schedule your consultation by visiting our website at alignchoiceortho.com.
Q6: Where can I find Oral Sleep Appliances in Mill Creek, WA?
A6: If you’re seeking oral sleep appliances for OSA management in Mill Creek, WA, Align Choice Orthodontics is your premier destination. Under the skilled care of Dr. Naghibi, who brings extensive training from UCLA in orofacial pain and oral sleep appliances, our practice provides advanced sleep apnea treatment with customized oral appliances. Discover how our tailored solutions can improve your sleep quality. Visit our website at alignchoiceortho.com to explore our services and book your appointment.
Your Questions About Treatment Logistics Answered for OSA Management
Q7: Are Oral Sleep Appliances covered by insurance?
A7: Yes, oral sleep appliances are often covered by medical insurance plans, as they are considered a treatment for a medical condition (obstructive sleep apnea). While some dental insurance plans may have limited benefits, coverage for oral sleep appliances primarily falls under your medical insurance. At Align Choice Orthodontics, we understand that navigating insurance for OSA management can be complex. That’s why our dedicated team goes the extra mile: we will thoroughly verify your insurance coverage – including both your medical and dental insurance – to determine your specific benefits. We also work with a dedicated third-party billing service to ensure your claims are processed efficiently, maximizing your coverage and minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for your sleep apnea treatment.
Q8: Do I need a referral for Oral Sleep Appliances at Align Choice Orthodontics?
A8: No referral is needed to begin your journey to better sleep with oral sleep appliances at Align Choice Orthodontics. We welcome patients directly, without the need for a referral from another doctor. We encourage you to take advantage of our free consultation, where we can answer all your questions, conduct a thorough examination, and determine if an oral sleep appliance or a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) is the right solution for your sleep apnea and snoring concerns, and your overall OSA management.
Q9: How much does an Oral Sleep Appliance (MAD) cost at your office?
A9: At Align Choice Orthodontics, we strive to make oral sleep appliances, including Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs), accessible and affordable for our patients near Everett and Mill Creek, WA, for effective OSA management. While the exact cost can vary slightly based on the specific appliance needed, our fees are very competitive, typically ranging between $1500 to $2000. We are committed to maximizing your insurance benefits; our team diligently works with both your medical and dental insurance providers to ensure you receive the most coverage possible. Additionally, to further assist with your investment in better sleep, we proudly offer in-house financing options.
Benefits and Considerations of Oral Sleep Appliances for OSA Management
Q10: What are the benefits of Oral Sleep Appliances compared to CPAP for OSA management?
A10: Many patients find oral sleep appliances more comfortable and easier to use than CPAP machines for OSA management. Benefits include:
- Improved restful sleep and more effective OSA management
- Enhanced cognitive performance and concentration
- Reduced fatigue and daytime sleepiness
- Significant decrease in snoring, benefiting both the patient and their sleep partner
- High portability and convenience for travel (no electricity needed)
- Completely quiet operation, unlike noisy CPAP machines
Q11: Are there any side effects or risks associated with Oral Sleep Appliances for OSA management?
A11: Common temporary side effects can include dry mouth, excessive salivation, and mild, temporary jaw pain. In some cases, an oral sleep appliance can subtly affect previous dental work or lead to minor tooth tenderness. Our Align Choice Orthodontics team will conduct a thorough assessment and discuss all potential risks and benefits specific to your situation. We will closely monitor your progress during follow-up appointments to ensure your comfort and the continued effectiveness of your oral sleep appliance therapy for OSA management.
Take the First Step Towards Restful Sleep and Effective OSA Management
Don’t let sleep apnea or chronic snoring dictate your life. If you’re in Everett or any of the surrounding communities like Silver Lake, Snohomish, Bothell, Mill Creek, Lynnwood, Marysville, or Arlington, and are seeking a comfortable, effective sleep apnea treatment for comprehensive OSA management, oral sleep appliances at Align Choice Orthodontics might be the answer.
With Dr. Farshid Naghibi’s specialized expertise in orofacial pain and oral sleep appliances, backed by his UCLA training and board certification, you are in highly capable hands. We are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care that helps you achieve the healthy, restorative sleep you deserve and effectively manage your OSA.
Ready to explore your options? Contact Align Choice Orthodontics today for a free consultation. Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions and guide you through the process. Visit alignchoiceortho.com or call us to schedule your appointment and take the crucial step towards a healthier, more vibrant you.
Align Choice Orthodontics: Your Choice for a Healthier Smile, Restful Sleep, and Effective OSA Management in Everett & Mill Creek.