Sleep Dentistry in St. Louis MO:
Your Gateway to Better Sleep and TMJ Relief

At Gateway Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ Therapy in St. Louis, MO, we understand that sleep plays a vital role in your health and well-being. When you struggle with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), chronic snoring, or TMJ disorders, the effects can extend far beyond fatigue. Untreated sleep or jaw problems can impact your concentration, productivity, relationships, and long-term health. That is why our team, led by Dr. Kevin F. Postol, is committed to offering proven, non-invasive, and advanced treatment options to help you breathe easier, sleep better, and live more comfortably.

Dr. Postol is recognized for his expertise in dental sleep medicine and is one of the first in Missouri to use Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) injections to regenerate TMJ tissues. His innovative approach has positioned our practice as a leader in both sleep apnea treatment and TMJ therapy in St. Louis.

Understanding the Impact of Sleep Apnea and TMJ Disorders

Millions of Americans suffer from sleep-related breathing disorders, often without realizing it. Snoring may seem harmless, but for many, it is a sign of obstructive sleep apnea. This condition occurs when the airway repeatedly collapses during sleep. These pauses in breathing lower oxygen levels and force the body to wake repeatedly throughout the night. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health risks such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Similarly, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause chronic facial pain, headaches, jaw stiffness, and difficulty chewing. The TMJ is one of the most complex joints in the body, and when it is not functioning properly, it can create widespread discomfort. Patients often experience clicking or popping sounds, locking of the jaw, or even referred pain into the neck and shoulders.

At our St. Louis office, we focus on treating these conditions at their root. Whether you are seeking relief from snoring, managing sleep apnea, or addressing TMJ-related pain, our team provides comprehensive, patient-centered care designed to restore your quality of life.

Our Approach to Better Sleep and TMJ Relief

Every patient’s situation is unique, which is why we begin with a personalized consultation and thorough evaluation. Dr. Postol reviews your medical history, symptoms, sleep study results if available, and oral health before recommending the right treatment plan.

Our philosophy is simple: provide solutions that are comfortable, effective, and minimally invasive. Unlike CPAP machines or surgery, our treatments are designed to be easy to use and easy to maintain, giving patients the highest chance of long-term success.

Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea in St. Louis

One of the most effective treatments we offer is oral appliance therapy. These small, custom-made devices resemble orthodontic retainers or sports mouthguards and are worn only while you sleep. By gently repositioning the lower jaw, the appliance keeps your airway open, allowing for uninterrupted breathing throughout the night.

For patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy due to its bulkiness, noise, or discomfort, oral appliances provide a quiet, portable, and non-intrusive alternative. Patients frequently report reduced snoring, improved sleep quality, and increased energy during the day.

Our Range of Oral Appliances

Because no two patients are alike, we offer a variety of oral appliances tailored to different needs:

• Adjustable PM Positioner – Easy to use, durable, and fully adjustable for maximum comfort.
• EMA (Elastic Mandibular Advancement Appliance) – A lightweight, two-piece design with adjustable straps, ideal for patients with smaller mouths.
• Dorsal Oral Appliance – A two-piece design that allows natural jaw movement and is highly effective for patients who grind their teeth at night.
• TAP® 3 Appliance – One of the most popular designs with a 95% compliance rate. It is self-adjustable, ensuring patients find the most comfortable position.
• Oral Appliance Herbst – A custom-made device with a strong metal framework, making it an excellent choice for patients with significant bruxism or teeth grinding.

By offering multiple options, Dr. Postol ensures that every patient receives a device perfectly suited to their anatomy, bite alignment, and severity of sleep apnea.

Comprehensive TMJ Therapy in St. Louis

In addition to treating sleep disorders, we also specialize in TMJ therapy. TMJ dysfunction can develop from teeth grinding, injury, arthritis, stress, or misaligned bites. Because the TMJ is essential for everyday functions such as eating and speaking, untreated disorders can become debilitating over time.

Home Remedies for TMJ Relief

For patients with mild symptoms, Dr. Postol often recommends at-home strategies such as:

• Modifying diet to include softer foods
• Alternating heat and ice packs to reduce pain and inflammation
• Essential oils for relaxation
• Gentle jaw and neck stretches
• Stress management techniques

These conservative approaches can make a significant difference, especially when paired with professional treatment.

Advanced In-Office TMJ Treatments

For moderate to severe TMJ disorders, we offer a wide range of therapies, including:

• Custom oral splints and bite guards to reduce strain on the jaw joint
• Trigger point injections for targeted pain relief
• Botox therapy to relax overactive jaw muscles
• Moist heat therapy to ease muscle tension
• Physical therapy referrals to improve mobility
• Medications for inflammation and pain management

Innovative TMJ Regeneration with PRF Therapy

One of the most exciting advancements in our practice is Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) therapy. This regenerative treatment uses the patient’s own blood to promote healing and repair damaged TMJ tissues. PRF releases growth factors that accelerate the body’s natural ability to regenerate cartilage, ligaments, and tendons within the joint.

Conditions that may benefit from PRF therapy include:

• Temporal tendinitis
• Jaw dislocation with or without disc displacement
• Chronic inflammation within the joint
• Degenerative tissue damage

By harnessing the body’s natural healing potential, PRF provides a safe and minimally invasive option for patients who have not found relief through traditional TMJ therapies.

Meet Dr. Kevin F. Postol: A Leader in Sleep Dentistry and TMJ Therapy

Dr. Kevin F. Postol is a nationally recognized authority in the field of dental sleep medicine and TMJ therapy. He is committed to continuous learning and regularly pursues advanced training in the latest treatments for sleep apnea and jaw disorders. His dedication to professional growth is reflected in the innovative technology and techniques available at our St. Louis office.

Dr. Postol is one of only six Diplomates in Missouri and one of just 325 Diplomates worldwide credentialed by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM). This prestigious recognition reflects his advanced education, clinical expertise, and proven success in treating sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy. In fact, he is one of only five Diplomates in the St. Louis area credentialed to provide this highly specialized treatment.

Currently, Dr. Postol serves as President of the AADSM after serving on its Board of Directors for eight years. He is also an active member of multiple respected professional organizations, including:

• American Dental Association
• Missouri Dental Association
• Greater St. Louis Dental Society
• American Academy of Sleep Medicine
• American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine

In addition to leadership positions, Dr. Postol has shared his expertise as a speaker both locally and at national conferences on the subject of sleep apnea. His professional reputation has earned him widespread respect among his peers and recognition in the community.

We are proud to share that Dr. Postol has been named one of St. Louis Magazine’s Top Doctors for 2025, an honor that highlights his commitment to excellence and exceptional patient care. Patients consistently describe him as compassionate, approachable, and highly knowledgeable, making him not only a skilled clinician but also a trusted partner in their journey to better health.

Why Choose Gateway Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ Therapy?

Patients from across St. Louis choose our practice because of our:

• Specialized expertise in sleep apnea and TMJ treatment
• Non-invasive, proven therapies tailored to individual needs
• Cutting-edge regenerative options such as PRF therapy
• Commitment to patient comfort and long-term success
• Local leadership in dental sleep medicine

We combine advanced technology, personalized care, and years of experience to create treatment plans that deliver results.

Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep and Pain-Free Living

If you are tired of snoring, struggling with CPAP therapy, or living with jaw pain, help is available. At Gateway Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ Therapy, we are here to guide you toward lasting relief.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Postol and discover how our advanced treatments can help you reclaim your health, restore your sleep, and live life with renewed energy and comfort.