Sleep Apnea Treatment in Toowoomba: What You Need to Know

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that affects sleep quality and overall health. If left untreated, it can lead to fatigue, cardiovascular issues, and other long-term health problems. 

If you or a loved one experiences loud snoring, gasping for air at night, or unexplained tiredness during the day, it may be time to seek professional help. At Garden City Dental Practice, we offer Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) to help patients in Toowoomba manage sleep apnoea and improve their sleep quality. 



In this article, we’ll explore what sleep apnoea is, how it affects your health, and why a MAD could be the right treatment option for you.

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses, known as apnoeas, occur until the brain detects a lack of oxygen and signals the body to wake up briefly. This usually results in a slight awakening, a gasp or snort as the airway reopens, and then an immediate return to sleep. It’s estimated that around 5% of Australians  experience sleep apnoea, with approximately one in four men over 30 being affected.

The most common type is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), which occurs when throat muscles relax and block the airway. This leads to disrupted sleep, loud snoring, and decreased oxygen levels.



Many people suffer from sleep apnea without realising it. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:

• Loud snoring
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Waking up feeling tired despite a full night’s rest
• Morning headaches
• Poor concentration
• Irritability or mood swings

Several factors can increase the risk of developing sleep apnoea, including:

• Excess weight: Fat deposits around the neck can narrow the airway.
• Age: Risk increases with age, especially in men over 30.
• Genetics: A family history of sleep apnoea can increase susceptibility.
• Alcohol and sedative use: These substances relax throat muscles, making blockages more likely.
• Smoking can cause inflammation and fluid retention in the airway.
• Medical conditions like hypothyroidism or large goitres affect airway function.
• Chronic congestion or a deviated septum can make breathing more difficult during sleep.

Sleep apnoea can range in severity, depending on how often breathing interruptions occur per hour:

• Normal – Fewer than five interruptions per hour
• Mild – 5 to 15 interruptions per hour
• Moderate – 15 to 30 interruptions per hour
• Severe – Over 30 interruptions per hour

For individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea, a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) is an effective treatment option. This custom-made oral appliance helps keep the airway open during sleep by gently repositioning the lower jaw forward. It’s small and portable and is designed for better wearability unlike the bulky CPAP machines.

How a MAD Works

A Mandibular Advancement Device works by:
✔ Preventing airway collapse by repositioning the jaw
✔ Reducing snoring and breathing interruptions
✔ Enhancing oxygen flow for better sleep quality

Choosing a MAD for sleep apnoea treatment in Toowoomba comes with several advantages:



1. Improved Sleep Quality. By preventing airway blockages, MADs help you achieve uninterrupted sleep, reducing daytime fatigue and improving energy levels.
2. Reduced Snoring. MADs significantly decrease snoring, which benefits both you and your partner, leading to better rest for everyone.
3. Comfortable and Custom-Fitted. Unlike generic over-the-counter devices, a custom-fitted MAD ensures proper jaw alignment for effective treatment without discomfort.
4. Easy to Use and Maintain. There are no complex settings, wires, or masks—just a simple, easy-to-wear device that fits in your mouth like a mouthguard.
5. Alternative to CPAP Therapy. For those who find CPAP machines uncomfortable, a MAD offers a practical and comfortable alternative for treating sleep apnoea.

A MAD may be suitable for individuals who:

✔ Have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea
✔ Struggle with snoring that disrupts sleep
✔ Cannot tolerate a CPAP machine
✔ Prefer a non-invasive treatment option

If you’re unsure whether a MAD is right for you, our dental team can help assess your condition and recommend the best solution.



Sleep apnea can have a significant impact on health and quality of life. With the right treatment, you can improve sleep, reduce snoring, and feel more rested each day. 



For more information about our sleep apnoea treatment in Toowoomba, please don’t hesitate to reach out to book an appointment with our dentist.