At The Center For Sleep Apnea and TMJ in Meridian, we are deeply committed to improving your sleep and overall health through state-of-the-art treatments. Sleep apnea is a condition that can significantly affect your quality of life, causing interruptions in breathing that lead to daytime fatigue and other serious health issues. Fortunately, there are innovative solutions right here in Meridian that might not involve the complexities and discomfort of traditional treatments.



One of the most promising options available under the guidance of Dr. Cameron Kuehne is the use of dental devices. These custom-fitted devices are designed to maintain the openness of your airway throughout the night, providing you with uninterrupted sleep and better health outcomes. Unlike other common treatments that can be intrusive and cumbersome, dental devices offer a simpler and often more comfortable solution. In the paragraphs that follow, we will explore in detail how these devices work and how we, guided by the care of Dr. Kuehne, can tailor this treatment specifically to your needs. By opting for this approach, many of our patients have seen significant improvements in their sleep patterns, overall health, and well-being.

Understanding Sleep Apnea and How Dental Devices Can Help

Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep. This can cause extreme tiredness during the day and may lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Here at The Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ, we understand the critical nature of treating this condition effectively. Under the guidance of Dr. Cameron Kuehne, we utilize dental devices as a frontline treatment for our patients in Meridian.



These devices, often called oral appliances, work by slightly adjusting the position of the jaw or tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. It’s a straightforward solution that many of our patients prefer over more intrusive methods. By keeping the airway open, these devices help ensure that your body gets the oxygen it needs throughout the night, which significantly reduces the health risks associated with sleep apnea and improves your overall quality of life.

Types of Dental Devices Recommended by Dr. Cameron Kuehne

At our center, we offer a variety of dental devices, and Dr. Cameron Kuehne works closely with each patient to select the most appropriate one based on their specific diagnosis and personal comfort. Two of the main types of devices we use include mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue-retaining mouthpieces.



Mandibular advancement devices are the most commonly used dental appliances for sleep apnea. They fit like a sports mouthguard and gently push the lower jaw down and forward. This small adjustment is often enough to keep the airway open during sleep. On the other hand, tongue-retaining devices use a suction bulb to hold the tongue in a forward position, preventing it from falling back in the throat and blocking the airway. Dr. Kuehne prefers these types of devices because they can be adjusted to the needs of our patients, ensuring both effectiveness in treating the disorder and comfort during sleep. Each option is tailored specifically for user comfort and the severity of their condition, making them a highly personalized treatment approach in our fight against sleep apnea.

Steps Involved in Getting Fitted for a Dental Device at Our Center

Getting started with a dental device to manage your sleep apnea involves a personalized process that we have refined to ensure the best outcomes for you. Initially, you’ll have a consultation with Dr. Cameron Kuehne, who will conduct a thorough evaluation of your sleep apnea symptoms and oral anatomy. This assessment helps us understand your specific needs and determine if a dental device is suitable for you.



Once Dr. Kuehne recommends a dental device, we take precise measurements of your mouth. Our team uses these measurements to customize your device for a perfect fit. This customization is crucial, as it not only maximizes the effectiveness of the treatment but also ensures that you are comfortable while wearing the device during sleep. You will then receive your custom device in a follow-up appointment, where Dr. Kuehne will also make any necessary adjustments and provide detailed instructions on how to use and care for your device.

Maintaining Your Dental Device: Tips and Best Practices

To ensure that your dental device continues to function effectively and contributes positively to your health, proper maintenance is essential. Daily cleaning is vital; just like your teeth, your device can accumulate bacteria and plaque. We recommend rinsing your device every morning with cool water and brushing it with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the material. Additionally, once a week, consider using a denture cleaner to give it a deeper clean, but steer clear of harsh chemicals and bleach.

Regular check-ups are also a crucial part of maintaining your device. These visits allow Dr. Kuehne to inspect the device for any signs of wear or damage and make adjustments to ensure it continues to fit properly. Regular follow-up appointments help us catch any potential issues early, ensuring your treatment remains on track. By taking good care of your dental device, you will maximize its lifespan and effectiveness in managing your sleep apnea.

We at The Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care for our patients. If you’re looking for a non-invasive sleep apnea treatment in Meridian, ID, our dental devices might be the solution. Dr. Cameron Kuehne and our expert team are here to guide you through every step of the process, from initial consultation to ongoing maintenance. Get in touch with us today to learn how you can breathe easier and sleep better tonight.