CPAP vs Dental Appliance for Sleep Apnea Therapy

If you have been recently diagnosed with sleep apnea, and are looking for sleep apnea treatment options, Gateway Dental Care of Pleasanton, CA may have a solution for you. There are two kinds of sleep apnea: central sleep apnea (rare) and obstructive sleep apnea (common). One treatment device is a CPAP machine, which stands for “continuous positive airway pressure.” Another treatment option, which is gaining in popularity, is a sleep apnea mouth guard

Which Treatment is Right for You?

Deciding which treatment option is best for you is a decision that should be discussed with your physician, but many factors are considered. The severity of your sleep apnea is the first consideration. Oral sleep apnea appliances work best for mild to moderate sleep apnea. Other factors that should be considered include your general health, and your tolerance for using a device like a CPAP, which many people find uncomfortable.

CPAP

A CPAP machine works by forcing a steady flow through a mask and into the nasal passages, maintaining an open airway. Different devices have different settings, and some now include a reservoir for water to add humidity to the airflow. While this treatment works for many people, the CPAP can be bulky to travel with, and some patients complain of persistent dry mouth and other discomforts. For some, it just doesn’t work.

Oral Appliances

The most commonly used oral device is the MAD (mandibular advancement device). These dental appliances for sleep apnea work by easing the lower jaw forward. Choosing this method requires your dentist to take dental impressions and fit a mouth guard especially for you. Another dental appliance is a tongue retainer, which works by holding the tongue in place. Many people find these devices comfortable and helpful for mild to moderate sleep apnea.

Effective and Convenient

The dental appliance for sleep apnea treatment has a few advantages that are hard to overlook. For some people, the bulk and inconvenience of the CPAP make it less desirable, while others cannot get comfortable with the apparatus. Oral sleep appliances have an advantage in:

• Portability
• Ease of use
• Increased Comfort Level
• Discreet Usage
• Effective For Stomach Sleepers

Learn More

Talk with your physician and decide the best course of treatment for your sleep apnea. When you are ready to try a sleep apnea mouth guard, contact Gateway Dental Care. Our dental professionals will fit you with a device that will be comfortable and effective.