Comparing CPAP and Oral Appliance Therapy

YOUR SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT OPTIONS

If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, your specialist may recommend either CPAP treatment or oral appliance therapy. The right treatment for you depends on a number of different factors, from the severity of your symptoms to your personal preference. Ultimately, the right choice is the device that you are able to use consistently. Read on to take a closer look at how these two treatment options compare.  

CPAP Therapy 

CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. The CPAP device consists of a small machine, a hose, and mask. The mask fits either over the nose, or over both the nose and mouth. The air forces the airways that close with sleep apnea open so that sufferers can breathe freely as they sleep. Although CPAP therapy is effective, some patients are non-compliant with their treatment plans. The CPAP mask can be uncomfortable for some people, and the noise created by the machine can be disruptive. Other people struggle with the fact that they cannot talk while wearing it. For other patients, however, CPAP therapy is a comfortable and effective way of managing sleep apnea. 

Oral Appliance Therapy 

An oral appliance for sleep apnea looks like a mouth guard and works by pushing the jaw forward. Appliances are created by sleep dentists and custom-made to fit each patient. For patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy can be a more comfortable solution. Oral appliances don’t make noise and are easier to travel with than CPAP machines. They can simply be stored in a small carrying case, similar to a retainer case.  

If you have sleep apnea, let Sleep Dynamics help you find the right treatment option for you. We offer both CPAP treatment and oral appliance therapy to help patients get the sleep they need. To make an appointment, please call (848) 217-0240.