I Need an Alternative to CPAP

Is a CPAP Machine a Deal-Breaker for You?

Nobody wants to be tied to a machine to get a good night’s sleep. If you know you’ve got sleep apnea, but you’re delaying getting treatment because you don’t want a CPAP machine, there’s good news. The CPAP machine may not be your only option. Dr. Koehne at the Wheaton Dental Sleep Center can help you explore all of your options.

What is Oral Device Therapy?

There are alternatives to a CPAP machine for getting a good night’s sleep. Oral device therapy is one of those alternatives that your dentist can use to help you sleep better. Oral device therapy involves using a type of appliance that is similar to a mouthguard.

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Unlike a CPAP machine, this type of oral device doesn’t force air into your airway. Instead, it prevents the soft tissues at the back of your throat from getting in the way of your breathing. These devices can work very well to help you sleep better through the night.

How Do Oral Appliances Work?

Oral device therapy involves the use of an appliance that pushes or pulls your lower jaw forward. It looks like a mouthguard. This moves your tongue into a position where it can’t block your airway. By moving your tongue, it reduces the risk of snoring.

How Effective are Oral Appliances?

For some patients, oral device therapy can be completely effective at stopping their snoring caused by sleep apnea. They are more effective for people who suffer from mild or moderate sleep apnea, but they can sometimes help people with severe sleep apnea as well.

You are more likely to benefit from oral device therapy if you are not overweight and if you regularly sleep on your side. While oral device therapy is a helpful alternative to a CPAP machine for OSA, it will not help with central sleep apnea.

What are the Benefits of Oral Device Therapy as Compared to CPAP Machines?

There are a number of benefits to oral device therapy as compared to a CPAP machine. Here are just a few:

Aside from the benefits of oral device therapy, the CPAP machine can cause problems that you can’t control, such as respiratory infections or ongoing congestion. These are just some of the reasons why many people with sleep apnea are looking for an acceptable alternative.

Can Anyone Use Oral Device Therapy?

While an oral device appliance is usually helpful for your sleep apnea, it may not be able to completely control it. For people who suffer from more severe sleep apnea, the CPAP machine might be a better choice. Still, if you simply cannot tolerate a CPAP, an oral appliance is better than nothing at all.

Call Today to Explore All Your Options!

If you have symptoms of sleep apnea, it’s important to seek treatment before it can cause other serious health problems. Call the professionals at the Wheaton Dental Sleep Center today for a consultation so you can start getting a restful night’s sleep right away!