
For many individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), CPAP therapy is often recommended as a first-line treatment. While CPAP can be highly effective, not every patient finds it comfortable or easy to use consistently.
At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham provides custom oral sleep appliances for eligible patients who have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and are seeking an alternative to CPAP therapy.
Serving patients throughout the Tri-Cities—including Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco—as well as communities across Eastern Washington, Dr. Bloxham takes a personalized approach to oral appliance therapy, focusing on comfort, precision, and long-term success.
What Is an Oral Sleep Appliance?
An oral sleep appliance is a custom-made device worn during sleep that gently positions the lower jaw forward. By supporting the jaw in a more favorable position, the appliance may help maintain a more open airway throughout the night.
Unlike bulky equipment or masks, oral appliances are compact, portable, and customized specifically for each patient's unique dental anatomy.
Many patients appreciate the simplicity and convenience of oral appliance therapy as part of their physician-directed sleep apnea treatment plan.
Who May Be a Candidate for an Oral Sleep Appliance?
Not everyone is a candidate for oral appliance therapy, which is why a comprehensive evaluation is so important.
Patients who may benefit from an oral sleep appliance often include:
Individuals Who Struggled with CPAP
Many patients have attempted CPAP therapy but found it difficult to tolerate due to:
- Mask discomfort
- Air pressure concerns
- Difficulty sleeping with equipment
- Frequent mask leaks
- Interrupted sleep
For these individuals, oral appliance therapy may provide an alternative treatment option worth exploring.
Individuals Who Have Concerns About CPAP
Some patients never begin CPAP therapy because they are concerned about:
- Claustrophobia
- Anxiety related to wearing a mask
- Comfort concerns
- Travel limitations
- Lifestyle preferences
A consultation can help determine whether oral appliance therapy may be an appropriate option to discuss with their healthcare team.
Our Comprehensive Evaluation Process
At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, we believe that successful oral appliance therapy begins with careful planning and evaluation.
Before moving forward with treatment, patients meet with Dr. Bloxham for a comprehensive consultation.
During this visit, we review your medical and dental history, discuss treatment goals, and evaluate whether oral appliance therapy may be appropriate for your individual needs.
Why We Use Cone Beam CT Imaging
One of the key components of our evaluation process is advanced Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) imaging.
This three-dimensional scan allows Dr. Bloxham to carefully evaluate important anatomical structures that may influence treatment planning and appliance design.
The information gathered through CBCT imaging helps ensure that oral appliance therapy is both appropriate and customized for each patient.
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we focus on developing a treatment plan based on detailed clinical findings.
Creating a Truly Custom Appliance
If oral appliance therapy is recommended, the next step involves collecting highly accurate records of your teeth and bite.
Depending on the case, this may include:
- Digital scans of the teeth
- Traditional impressions
- Bite registrations
- Jaw position measurements
These records are used to create a custom appliance designed specifically for your mouth.
Because every patient's anatomy is different, customization is essential for achieving optimal comfort, retention, and long-term wearability.
Precision Matters
A properly designed oral appliance should do more than simply fit your teeth.
Dr. Bloxham carefully evaluates:
- Bite relationship
- Jaw positioning
- Appliance comfort
- Retention and stability
- Long-term function
His expertise in jaw function, bite mechanics, and TMJ health allows him to create highly individualized treatment plans that prioritize both effectiveness and patient comfort.
Ongoing Support and Adjustments
Successful oral appliance therapy does not end when the appliance is delivered.
Patients are monitored regularly to ensure proper fit, comfort, and function. Adjustments may be made over time to optimize the appliance and help support long-term success.
Our goal is to help patients achieve a comfortable and sustainable treatment experience.
Serving the Tri-Cities and Eastern Washington
Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ proudly serves patients from:
- Kennewick
- Richland
- Pasco
- West Richland
- Benton City
- Walla Walla
- Yakima
- Moses Lake
- Hermiston
- Communities throughout Eastern Washington
Patients throughout the region seek care from Dr. Jared Bloxham because of his commitment to precision, advanced technology, and personalized treatment.
Explore Your Options for Better Sleep
If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and are looking for an alternative to CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy may be worth considering.
At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham provides comprehensive consultations, advanced CBCT imaging, and custom-designed oral sleep appliances tailored to each patient's unique needs.
From the initial evaluation to the final fitting and follow-up care, our team is committed to helping patients throughout the Tri-Cities and Eastern Washington receive comfortable, personalized treatment solutions that support better sleep and improved quality of life.











