8490 S. Eastern Ave, Suite A 
Las Vegas NV, 89123

I Need Help With:

SLEEP APNEA

CPAP INTOLERANCE

SNORING

Carolina's Premier Dedicated Sleep & TMJ Practice. Dedicated Entirely to Helping People Who Suffer From Sleep Apnea, Snoring and TMJ.

Welcome to Carolina's Premier Dedicated Sleep & TMJ Practice

We Can Help

Welcome to Carolina's Only Dedicated Sleep and TMJ Practice

We Can Help

BREATH WELL, SLEEP WELL,

LIVE WELL

A Practical Guide to Understanding and Managing Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Download The First Chapter Free

Meet The Doctor

RICK W. VAN GURP

DDS, DABDSM, FACD, IFOC

A founder of the first practice dedicated to Dental Sleep Medicine and TMJ/Head and Facial Pain in the Charlotte metropolitan area, Dr. Richard “Rick” Van Gurp now brings his skill and expertise to Carolina TMJ and Sleep Solutions.


Along with a board certification in Dental Sleep Medicine, Dr. Van Gurp has extensive training in the conservative, non-surgical treatment of TMJ disorders. Dr. Van Gurp’s knowledge and experience assure patients that not only will they receive the highest level of service, but also the greatest likelihood of success in controlling their sleep apnea, snoring, and/or TMJ issue.


Dr. Van Gurp’s patients have included physicians and other colleagues in the medical and dental profession which speaks to his reputation and the level of service he and his staff provide for all their patients. With speaking engagements, he has also had the opportunity to share his knowledge with other health care professionals. Dr. Van Gurp is also a Fellow with the American College of Dentists.


Dr. Van Gurp is originally from Pennsylvania and received his first exposure to the Carolinas when his parents moved to Charlotte in 1980. He attended dental school at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he received his doctorate and was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the dental honor fraternity. Following dental school, Dr. Van Gurp completed a hospital-based General Practice Residency at Hartford Hospital in Hartford, Connecticut.


Dr. Van Gurp is happily married with three adult children including a son who is a dental student at the East Carolina School of Dental Medicine. Believing one’s health is their first wealth, Dr. Van Gurp enjoys spending time in the gym and is an avid scuba diver. Dr. Van Gurp is also a licensed chaplain with the International Fellowship of Chaplains.

About Dr. Van Gurp

What our patients are saying

When you've successfully treated thousands of patients for sleep apnea and snoring, you start to hear the same questions again and again. Here are a few of the ones we hear almost daily.

Frequently asked questions

  • How can I clean my appliance?

    It is recommended to clean the appliance daily with a soft brush, mild soap, and water. Avoid using toothpaste with baking soda or bleach, hot water, or abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the appliance. You can also use a specialized appliance cleaner recommended by your dentist or sleep doctor.

  • Do I really have to wear that morning appliance?

    Yes, wearing the morning repositioner is important to maintain the effects of the treatment. This simple appliance can help you maintain your bite, as well as prevent tooth movements.

  • Should I still see my dentist?

    Yes, you should still see your dentist regularly for check-ups, cleanings, and other general dental needs.

  • When do I go back to my sleep doctor?

    You should go back to your sleep doctor for a follow-up appointment after a few months of using the oral appliance to assess its effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments. Dr. Van Gurp will guide you in this process.

  • How often do I need to come back to see you?

    The frequency of follow-up appointments will depend on your individual case and the type of oral appliance you are using. We will provide you with a recommended schedule for check-ups and adjustments.

  • What happens if my appliance breaks?

    If your oral appliance breaks, you should contact doctor Covington immediately for repair or replacement. Do not attempt to fix it yourself as it may damage the appliance further.

  • How can I tell if my appliance is still working?

    You can tell if your oral appliance is still working by monitoring your symptoms, such as snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, and gasping for breath during sleep. If you notice any changes or worsening of your symptoms, contact us for evaluation.

  • What should I do if my teeth are shifting?

    If you notice that your teeth are shifting, you should contact us immediately for evaluation and adjustment of the oral appliance.

  • What should I do if food now gets stuck between my teeth?

    If you experience food getting stuck between your teeth and the oral appliance, you should contact your dentist for evaluation and adjustment of the appliance.

  • Should I get another appliance just in case?

    Getting another appliance as a backup may not be necessary, but it is always best to consult with your dentist or sleep doctor to determine if it is appropriate for your individual case.

  • When will I need to replace my appliance?

    The lifespan of your oral appliance will depend on the type of appliance, frequency of use, maintenance, and patient factors, including grinding and clenching. Dr Van Gurp will advise you when it is time to replace your appliance.

  • What happens if I get a new filling, cap or lose a tooth?

    If you get a new filling, cap, or lose a tooth, you should contact us immediately for evaluation and adjustment of the oral appliance. If you have fillings scheduled, we may be able to adjust your appliance the same day to prevent you being without it.

  • Will my insurance cover all the costs?

    Insurance coverage for oral appliances for sleep apnea varies depending on the insurance provider and plan. You should contact us and your insurance provider to determine your coverage.