Are There Side Effects to Wearing a Sleep Apnea Mouthguard?
Oral appliance therapy is one of the safest treatments available for obstructive sleep apnea. Most patients tolerate their device very well — especially compared to CPAP, which has a 30–50% abandonment rate largely due to side effects and discomfort. That said, some patients experience side effects, most of which are temporary or easily managed by your dental sleep specialist.
Common Short-Term Side Effects
During the first few weeks of wearing a mandibular advancement device, many patients experience:
- Jaw soreness or stiffness in the morning — This is the most commonly reported side effect and typically resolves within a few weeks as your jaw adapts to the new position
- Tooth soreness — Mild pressure on the teeth is normal initially. This usually fades as your mouth adjusts
- Increased saliva production — Your mouth may produce more saliva than usual at first. This is temporary
- Dry mouth — Some patients experience dryness, especially if they breathe through their mouth at night
- Temporary bite changes in the morning — Your teeth may not fit together normally for a short period after removing the device each morning. This typically resolves within 15–30 minutes
Long-Term Side Effects to Monitor
With years of nightly use, a small percentage of patients experience more lasting changes:
- Tooth movement — Long-term use can cause minor shifts in tooth position in some patients. Regular dental monitoring catches this early
- Bite changes — Some patients develop minor changes in how their upper and lower teeth meet over time. Morning jaw exercises prescribed by your specialist can minimize this risk
- TMJ sensitivity — Patients with pre-existing jaw joint issues may experience increased sensitivity. Your specialist will screen for TMJ conditions before fitting your device
How Specialists Minimize Side Effects
A key advantage of working with a qualified dental sleep medicine specialist is that they actively monitor for side effects and make adjustments to prevent problems. This includes:
- Starting with conservative jaw advancement and titrating gradually
- Prescribing morning jaw exercises to reset your bite each day
- Providing bite wafers or repositioners to use after removing the device
- Regular follow-up appointments to monitor teeth, bite, and jaw joint health
- Adjusting or modifying the device design if persistent issues arise
Who Should Be Cautious
Oral appliance therapy may not be suitable for patients with active TMJ disorder, insufficient teeth to support the device, certain types of dental work, or severe gum disease. A thorough examination by a dental sleep specialist will identify any contraindications before treatment begins.
The Bottom Line on Side Effects
The vast majority of patients tolerate oral appliance therapy very well and find the minor initial adjustment period worth the long-term benefits of treating their sleep apnea without a CPAP machine. The key is working with an experienced dental sleep medicine specialist who knows how to fit, adjust, and monitor the device properly. Find a qualified specialist near you at SkipTheCPAP.com.