
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects millions of Americans, yet many people struggle with the standard treatment option: CPAP. While effective, CPAP can feel noisy, uncomfortable, restrictive, or simply difficult to use night after night. What many patients don’t know is that trained dental professionals and orofacial pain specialists can offer a proven, comfortable alternative.
At Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, Dr. Jared Bloxham is an experienced orofacial pain specialist—not a sleep physician—who provides custom oral appliance therapy for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those seeking a more comfortable option than CPAP.
If you have sleep apnea or suspect you might, and you’re looking for a non-invasive, quiet, and travel-friendly solution, a custom oral sleep appliance may be the answer.
Why an Orofacial Pain Specialist Can Treat Sleep Apnea
While sleep physicians diagnose sleep apnea through sleep studies, oral appliance therapy is a dental-based solution. This means the expertise of an orofacial pain specialist like Dr. Bloxham is essential.
Because sleep apnea often involves jaw structure, airway obstruction, tongue posture, muscle tension, and bite alignment, an orofacial pain specialist is uniquely qualified to:
- Evaluate how the jaw and facial muscles contribute to airway collapse
- Assess tongue position and mouth-breathing habits
- Determine whether a custom-made appliance can improve nighttime breathing
- Provide long-term monitoring and adjustments
Dr. Bloxham works collaboratively with sleep physicians to ensure patients receive the correct diagnosis while offering advanced treatment options that focus on comfort and long-term success.
What Is a Custom Oral Sleep Appliance?
A custom oral appliance is a small, comfortable device worn during sleep that gently repositions the lower jaw forward. This helps keep the airway open, preventing the collapse that leads to snoring and sleep apnea episodes.
Unlike over-the-counter devices, a dentist-crafted sleep appliance is:
- Custom molded to your mouth
- Adjustable to maximize airway support
- Comfortable enough for nightly use
- Backed by research and recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine for appropriate patients
For many patients, it’s an empowering alternative to CPAP therapy.
Benefits of Treating Sleep Apnea with an Oral Appliance
Thousands of patients choose oral appliance therapy because it offers:
✓ Greater Comfort Than CPAP
No mask, no straps, no hoses, and no forced air.
✓ Quiet, Discreet, and Easy to Use
Your partner will appreciate it just as much as you do.
✓ Portable and Travel-Friendly
Ideal for frequent travelers or those who dislike bulky equipment.
✓ Improved Breathing and Sleep Quality
Better airflow leads to deeper sleep, improved energy, clearer focus, and reduced morning headaches.
Is an Oral Appliance Right for You?
You may be a great candidate if:
- You have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
- You are CPAP-intolerant or prefer a non-invasive alternative
- You want a comfortable, discreet treatment option
During your evaluation, Dr. Bloxham will assess your airway, jaw joint function, bite alignment, and muscle health to determine whether an oral appliance is the best treatment option.
Why Choose Dr. Jared Bloxham for Oral Appliance Therapy?
As an orofacial pain specialist, Dr. Bloxham brings a deep understanding of:
- Jaw structure and biomechanics
- Muscle function and tension patterns
- TMJ disorders that often overlap with sleep apnea
- Airway anatomy and how dental positioning impacts nighttime breathing
His advanced training allows him to create precise, comfortable, and effective appliances—while addressing related issues such as TMJ pain, clenching, or chronic headaches.
Patients trust Dr. Bloxham because he focuses on root-cause solutions, not temporary fixes.
Breathe Better—Sleep Better. Explore CPAP Alternatives Today.
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea—or suspect you have it—but want a comfortable, effective alternative to CPAP, a custom oral sleep appliance could transform your nights and your days.
Dr. Jared Bloxham at Columbia Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ is here to help.
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Call our office today to schedule your consultation and learn whether oral appliance therapy is right for you.
A better night’s sleep may be simpler than you think.











