Sleep Apnea Treatment in Fort Collins, CO

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when soft tissues in the throat collapse and block the airway. This results in fragmented sleep and reduced oxygen intake, contributing to a range of health issues, including:

• Daytime fatigue and irritability
  
  
• Morning headaches
  
  
• Poor concentration
  
  
• Elevated risk of heart disease and high blood pressure

For patients seeking an alternative to CPAP machines, oral appliance therapy is a proven solution. These small, custom-fitted devices reposition the jaw and tongue to keep your airway open—ensuring uninterrupted sleep and improved overall health.

Unlike CPAP machines, which can be bulky and noisy, oral appliances are quiet, compact, and easy to use. At Foothills Family Dental, we use digital scanning technology to create an appliance that fits your mouth precisely and comfortably. Patients often prefer this method for its:

• Portability during travel
  
  
• Simplicity of care
  
  
• Non-invasiveness
  
  
• Effectiveness in reducing snoring and improving sleep

We also monitor your results over time, ensuring the device continues to meet your needs and integrates seamlessly into your daily routine.

Looking for a more comprehensive approach? Our general dentistry services include dental cleanings and exams to support your oral and overall health—key factors when managing sleep apnea.

You may be a candidate for a dental sleep appliance if:

• You’ve been diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA
  
  
• You find CPAP therapy uncomfortable or disruptive
  
  
• You experience chronic snoring or nighttime gasping
  
  
• You are looking for a non-surgical, easy-to-maintain treatment

We collaborate with your sleep physician to determine the best course of treatment. Our team also evaluates other contributing oral factors, such as teeth grinding or jaw alignment, which may benefit from services like mouthguards or TMJ treatment.

Dr. Richard J. Pass brings over 20 years of experience to Fort Collins, with a strong focus on patient comfort and long-term health. Our practice offers modern diagnostic tools, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a full spectrum of dental services—including emergency dentistry and digital dentures for related restorative needs.

Whether you're visiting from Fort Collins, Timnath, or Wellington, we tailor every treatment plan to fit your individual lifestyle and goals.

Ready to Reclaim Your Rest?

Schedule a consultation for sleep apnea treatment with Foothills Family Dental today. Contact us online to get started.

FAQs About Sleep Apnea Treatment

1. How do I know if I have sleep apnea?: Common signs include loud snoring, restless sleep, choking or gasping at night, and excessive daytime fatigue. A sleep study can confirm a diagnosis.
   
   
2. Can a dentist really treat sleep apnea?: Yes. Dentists trained in sleep apnea care can create oral appliances that help reposition your jaw to keep your airway open during sleep.
   
   
3. What’s the difference between an oral appliance and a CPAP machine?: CPAP machines deliver air pressure through a mask, while oral appliances adjust your jaw position to prevent airway obstruction. Many patients find appliances easier to use.
   
   
4. Will insurance cover this treatment?: In many cases, yes. Oral appliance therapy is often covered under medical insurance for diagnosed sleep apnea. Our team can help verify your coverage.
   
   
5. Do I need a referral from a sleep doctor?: It depends. If you already have a sleep apnea diagnosis, we can often work directly with your physician. If not, we may recommend completing a sleep study first.