CPAP Alternatives – Beachwood, OH

Treating Sleep Apnea with Oral Appliance Therapy

A less invasive option for patients who cannot sleep with the CPAP is treatment with oral appliance therapy. It’s a device that is custom-fit and crafted by the dentist to ensure a proper fit. The oral appliance works by holding the lower mandible and tongue in place during sleep, preventing their collapse and the resulting blockage of airflow to the brain.

The benefits of using oral appliance therapy compared to CPAP for patients who are CPAP intolerant are many. One significant advantage is that the noisy CPAP machine often disturbs the partner’s sleep, too. But the oral appliance is silent, giving everyone the benefits of a full night’s undisturbed sleep. And because the CPAP is large and requires water to run, it can make travel difficult. Some patients forgo use of the machine altogether when they sleep outside of the home, resulting in groggy, irritable vacations or business trips. By contrast, the oral appliance is highly portable -- so you can enjoy relief from your sleep apnea symptoms no matter where you are.

There is also comfort to consider. The CPAP is attached to a face mask, which many patients find uncomfortable. It’s also difficult or impossible to drink a sip of water or speak wearing the mask. With the small, removable oral appliance, comfort is greatly increased for better, easier sleep.

Oral Appliance Options

At The Center for Advanced Dentistry, we offer two types of oral appliances for treating sleep apnea: the SomnoDent and the Moses. Both are comfortable, effective devices.

• SomnoDent increases the volume of the upper airway and reduces its potential to collapse. It sort of resembles an athlete’s mouthguard, and it’s one of the most popular options available for sleep apnea treatment available today.
• The Moses dilates the airway by pulling the tongue and lower jaw forward. Patients can speak and drink as they wish while wearing the Moses. It is one of the most comfortable options in sleep apnea treatment available today.

Let’s Get Started on Your Sleep Apnea Treatment

If you have tried sleep apnea treatment with a CPAP but haven’t had success, please don’t wait another day to ask about oral appliance therapy. Proper treatment of your sleep breathing disorder is crucial for preventing the associated health risks of sleep apnea. Contact us to discuss oral appliance therapy today! You deserve the benefits of a full night’s sleep, every single night.