Custom Sleep Apnea & Snoring Appliances in Berea, Ohio

Loud snoring and constant daytime fatigue are more than just an inconvenience — they're often a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where the airway repeatedly collapses during sleep and interrupts your breathing. Left untreated, sleep apnea is linked to high blood pressure, heart problems, and chronic exhaustion. At Maggie A. Kleem, DDS in Berea, Ohio, we offer a simple, comfortable solution many patients don't realize is available right at their family dentist: a custom-made oral appliance.

If you've been told you snore, wake up gasping, or feel tired no matter how long you sleep — or if you've struggled to tolerate a CPAP machine — oral appliance therapy may be the answer. It's small, quiet, easy to travel with, and made specifically for your mouth.

What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?

An oral appliance is a custom-fitted device — similar in appearance to a sports mouthguard or a clear retainer — that you wear only while you sleep. It works by gently holding your lower jaw and tongue in a slightly forward position, keeping your airway open so air can flow freely throughout the night. When the airway stays open, the soft tissues at the back of the throat stop vibrating, which is what eliminates snoring and the breathing interruptions of sleep apnea.

Because every appliance is crafted from a precise impression of your own teeth, it fits snugly and comfortably — unlike the bulky, one-size-fits-all devices sold at the drugstore. Dr. Kleem will adjust the fit over time to maximize both comfort and effectiveness.

A Comfortable Alternative to CPAP

CPAP machines are highly effective, but the reality is that many people simply can't tolerate them. The mask, the noise, the hose, and the air pressure lead a large number of patients to abandon CPAP within the first year. The best treatment is the one you'll actually use every night — and for many people with mild to moderate sleep apnea, that's an oral appliance.

Oral appliances are quiet, require no electricity, and fit easily in a carry-on bag. There's no mask covering your face and nothing strapped to your head. For patients who travel often, camp, or have always disliked their CPAP, a custom appliance can be life-changing. In some cases, an appliance is also used in combination with CPAP to allow for lower, more comfortable pressure settings.

What to Expect

The process is straightforward and entirely in-office:

• Consultation & evaluation — Dr. Kleem reviews your symptoms, sleep history, and any sleep study results you may have.
• Custom impressions — We take precise impressions of your teeth so your appliance fits perfectly.
• Fitting & adjustment — When your appliance is ready, we fit it and fine-tune the position for comfort and results.
• Follow-up care — We monitor how you're sleeping and feeling, and make any adjustments needed over time.

Is an Oral Appliance Right for You?

Oral appliance therapy is an excellent option for patients with primary snoring or mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, as well as for those with severe sleep apnea who cannot tolerate CPAP. The best way to know if it's right for you is a conversation with Dr. Kleem — she'll listen to your concerns, review any prior sleep testing, and coordinate with your physician when a formal diagnosis is needed.

Snoring and sleep apnea don't just affect you — they affect your partner's sleep, too. If poor sleep is wearing on your health and your household, it's worth a simple visit to explore your options.