Aesthetic Dentistry of Lake Oswego
Larry Bowden DMD
family at park near lake oswego, OR

Am I a Good Candidate for a TAP® Appliance

July 22, 2025
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woman sleeping soundly after sleep apnea treatment in lake oswego, OR

If you’re using a CPAP machine and finding it difficult to acclimate to the cumbersome mask, the TAP appliance may be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Of course, our dentist will evaluate you to ensure you’re a candidate for the TAP oral appliance.

About Sleep Apnea: What You Should Know

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that causes you to stop breathing multiple times during the night. Your body and all its systems require sustained oxygen, so the cessation of breathing eventually takes a toll.

The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive, meaning your airway is anatomically compromised while you’re sleeping.

Evidence and studies link untreated sleep apnea to many conditions, including:

  • High Blood Pressure
  • Stroke
  • Heart Health Issues
  • Obesity
  • Kidney Disease

It is also associated with:

  • Snoring
  • Sudden waking
  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Mood changes

Sleep Apnea Treatment in Lake Oswego

The most common treatment for sleep apnea is the CPAP machine, a device that delivers constant airflow through a mask. It can take some getting used to, and it may be challenging to take on vacation.

In our dental office, we offer the TAP appliance, which helps people sleep comfortably and safely without the burdensome CPAP.

Is a TAP Appliance Right for Me?

The TAP (Thornton Adjustable Positioner) device is an adjustable and custom oral appliance worn during sleep. It consists of tooth trays and a special adjuster for maximum comfort. The TAP appliance is designed to treat sleep apnea and general snoring—not everyone who snores has sleep apnea—by keeping the airway open during the night.

Of course, the only way to confirm your candidacy for the TAP appliance is to book a consultation with the dentist.

Contact Your Holistic Dentist in Lake Oswego

To learn more about our sleep apnea treatments or to schedule a consultation with our dentist, please get in touch with a member of our dental team today at (503) 675-7300 or request an appointment online.

We accept CareCredit financing.

If you have difficulty using our website, please email us or call us at (503) 675-7300
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