Sleep Apnea Care

Better sleep, without the CPAP

If you can't tolerate a CPAP — or just want a quieter, simpler alternative — a custom-fitted oral appliance can effectively treat mild to moderate sleep apnea. We'll handle the medical billing too.

Why it matters

Oral appliance therapy: an alternative that works

An estimated 30 million Americans have sleep apnea, but as many as 40% can't tolerate a CPAP machine. Oral appliances — small, custom-fitted mouthpieces worn during sleep — are an FDA-approved alternative for mild to moderate cases.

We're AADSM-trained in dental sleep medicine, enrolled with Medicare DME for E0486 oral appliances, and credentialed with major medical insurers including BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, UHC, and TRICARE. Most patients pay little to nothing out of pocket.

Couple in bed, one snoring — sleep apnea symptoms

How we help

Our approach to sleep apnea care

Custom Oral Appliances

FDA-approved E0486 mandibular advancement devices, custom-fitted to gently reposition your jaw and keep your airway open.

Medical Insurance Billing

We handle the medical insurance side — BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, UHC, TRICARE, and Medicare DME enrollment included.

Physician Coordination

We work directly with sleep physicians and ENTs across Hampton Roads to ensure proper diagnosis and follow-up.

VA & TRICARE Friendly

Active enrollment with OptumServe (CCN Region 1) and TRICARE makes us a strong option for veterans and military families.

CPAP Alternative

For patients who've tried and failed CPAP, oral appliances offer a quiet, travel-friendly, no-electricity alternative.

Long-Term Follow-Up

We monitor your progress, adjust the appliance as needed, and coordinate follow-up sleep studies.

What you can expect

A visit, step by step

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Sleep study (you bring it)

We need a recent sleep study (home or in-lab) showing diagnosed sleep apnea. If you don't have one, we can refer you to a sleep physician.
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Consultation & impressions

We review your study, examine your airway and bite, and take impressions for your custom appliance.
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Insurance verification

Our team verifies your medical insurance coverage and explains your costs before any work begins.
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Fitting & titration

When your appliance arrives, we fit it carefully and gradually adjust the position over a few visits to find your sweet spot.
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Follow-up sleep test

After you've adjusted, we recommend a follow-up sleep study to confirm the appliance is working effectively.

FAQ

Common questions

How effective are oral appliances?

For mild to moderate sleep apnea, oral appliances are highly effective — comparable to CPAP for many patients. For severe cases, CPAP is usually still recommended, though some patients use both.

Will my medical insurance cover it?

In most cases, yes. E0486 oral appliances are covered by Medicare DME and most major medical insurers including BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, UHC, and TRICARE. We verify benefits and handle billing for you.

How long does it take to get used to?

Most patients adjust within 1–2 weeks. Some experience mild jaw soreness or excess saliva initially, which fades quickly. We titrate the appliance gradually to maximize comfort.

Do I need a prescription?

Yes — we'll need a sleep study and a prescription from a sleep physician. If you don't have one, we can refer you to one of our trusted physician partners across Hampton Roads.

Ready to get started?

Schedule your first visit

New patients are always welcome at Denbigh Dental Care. Give us a call or send a message and we'll find a time that works for you.

Call (757) 239-6400 Email Us