Sleep Apnea Treatment in Calgary at a Glance
Quick answer: Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It is diagnosed by a physician, usually with a sleep study. For many people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, or who cannot use CPAP, a dentist can make a custom oral appliance that helps keep the airway open. Inglewood Family Dental provides sleep apnea treatment in Calgary.
Book online or call 403-265-5888 to ask about oral appliance therapy.
Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to daytime fatigue, high blood pressure and heart problems, so it is worth having symptoms checked. If you have been searching for sleep apnea treatment near you, we can talk about your symptoms and work with your physician on a plan.
Sleep apnea treatment is provided by Inglewood Family Dental, a family dental clinic in Calgary, Alberta, led by Dr. Arash Ravanbakhsh, DDS. Our clinic is in the Inglewood community at 1420 9 Ave SE #24, Calgary, AB T2G 0T5, Canada, just east of downtown, and we welcome patients from every part of Calgary.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition that affects your breathing during sleep. In the most common type, the soft tissues in the throat relax and block the airway, so less oxygen reaches the body. The brain then wakes you briefly to restart breathing, often many times a night without you knowing.
A physician diagnoses sleep apnea, usually with an overnight or at-home sleep study. A dentist can help by spotting signs during a check-up and, once you have a diagnosis, by making and adjusting an oral appliance.
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Common signs include:
- Loud snoring, or pauses in breathing noticed by a partner
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Morning headaches and a dry mouth or sore throat
- Daytime tiredness and poor concentration
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Not everyone with sleep apnea snores, and these signs can have other causes. If you notice them, talk to your doctor or dentist about whether a sleep study is right for you.
Types of Sleep Apnea
There are three main types:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – the most common type, caused by the airway being blocked by relaxed throat tissues. Oral appliances are used for OSA.
- Central sleep apnea (CSA) – the brain does not send the right signals to the muscles that control breathing. This is managed by a physician.
- Complex sleep apnea – a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of your sleep apnea. Your physician and dentist can help you choose the right option:
| Option | How it helps | Usually provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Custom oral appliance | Holds the lower jaw slightly forward to help keep the airway open during sleep | A dentist, after a physician's diagnosis |
| CPAP machine | Uses gentle air pressure through a mask to keep the airway open; often recommended for moderate to severe cases | A physician or sleep clinic |
| Lifestyle changes | Weight management, sleeping on your side and limiting alcohol may reduce symptoms for some people | Your physician and care team |
| Surgery | May be considered for some structural causes when other options have not worked | A surgical specialist, by referral |
If you grind your teeth at night, a night guard can help protect them, but it does not treat sleep apnea on its own.
Why Choose Our Clinic for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Custom-Fitted Appliances
Oral appliances are made from impressions or scans of your teeth so they fit comfortably and are adjusted over time.
Working With Your Physician
We work alongside your physician or sleep clinic so your diagnosis, treatment and follow-up testing are connected.
Careful Follow-Up
We check the fit, your comfort and your teeth and jaw at regular visits, and adjust the appliance when needed.
How Oral Appliance Therapy Works
Consultation
We talk about your sleep, symptoms and health history and examine your teeth and jaw.
Sleep Study
Your physician arranges a sleep study to diagnose sleep apnea and its severity.
Treatment Plan
If an oral appliance is suitable, we explain how it works and the cost.
Impressions
We take impressions or scans of your teeth to make the custom appliance.
Appliance Fitting
We fit the appliance, show you how to wear and clean it and make adjustments.
Adjustments
Over the following weeks we may fine-tune the position for comfort and effect.
Follow-Up Testing
Your physician may arrange a follow-up sleep test to check how well it is working.
Ongoing Care
We check the appliance and your bite at regular visits and replace it when needed.
Benefits of Treating Sleep Apnea
- May improve sleep quality and daytime energy
- Often reduces snoring, which can help your partner sleep too
- Treating sleep apnea may help lower some long-term health risks
- Better focus and less daytime tiredness for many people
- Oral appliances are small, quiet and easy to travel with
- An option for people who find CPAP hard to use
- Custom fit for comfort
- Simple daily cleaning at home
How Much Does Sleep Apnea Treatment Cost in Calgary?
The cost of an oral appliance depends on the type of appliance, lab fees and the number of follow-up visits. Our fees are based on the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, and we explain the cost before treatment.
Some dental and extended health plans cover part of the cost of oral appliances when sleep apnea has been diagnosed. We offer direct billing and financing options. If you are comparing sleep apnea treatment near you, ask us to check your coverage.
Book a Sleep Apnea Consultation
Snoring, waking up tired or told you stop breathing at night? Book online or call 403-265-5888 to talk about your symptoms and whether an oral appliance could help.
Serving Patients Across Calgary
Looking for sleep apnea treatment near you? Patients visit us from across Calgary, not only from Inglewood. We are a few minutes east of downtown and an easy trip from Crescent Heights, Erlton and Mayland Heights. Evening and weekend appointments can make follow-up visits easier to fit in. Book online or call 403-265-5888.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea Treatment
What are the common symptoms of sleep apnea?
Symptoms include loud snoring, waking up gasping, morning headaches, daytime tiredness and poor concentration. Not everyone with sleep apnea snores, so a sleep study is needed for a diagnosis.
How do oral appliances help with sleep apnea?
An oral appliance holds the lower jaw slightly forward during sleep, which can help keep the airway open. It is mainly used for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or for people who cannot use CPAP.
Can a dentist diagnose sleep apnea?
No. A dentist may notice signs, such as teeth grinding or a narrow airway, but sleep apnea is diagnosed by a physician, usually with a sleep study.
How long does it take to feel better after treatment?
Some people notice better sleep within a few nights, while others need a few weeks of adjustments. Your physician may arrange a follow-up sleep test to check how well the treatment is working.
Is CPAP the only option for treating sleep apnea?
No. CPAP is common, especially for moderate to severe cases, but oral appliances, lifestyle changes and, in some cases, surgery are other options. Your physician can help you decide.
What should you avoid if you have sleep apnea?
Alcohol and sedatives close to bedtime can relax the throat muscles and may make sleep apnea worse. Sleeping on your back can also make it worse for some people. Ask your doctor before stopping any medication.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Arash Ravanbakhsh, DDS — Last reviewed: October 2026.