Oral Appliance Therapy Is the Solution to Common CPAP Problems!

Doctors often prescribe CPAP therapy for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). There is no doubt that this treatment can be very effective! However, it also comes with some downsides. In fact, patients often complain about it and may even have a hard time complying with their treatment! What are some of the most common CPAP problems, and how can oral appliance therapy provide an effective solution? This blog post explains.

CPAP Problems

A CPAP machine uses pressurized air to keep the airway open and prevent pauses in breathing during sleep. Unfortunately, it comes with some frustrations:

• Mask discomfort. The tight fit of the mask can cause pressure sores and a constricted feeling. Many people with past trauma cannot tolerate having the mask on their face.
• Skin irritation. Wearing the mask for hours on end can cause chafing and redness. Some individuals even have an allergic reaction.
• Noise. CPAP machines can be on the noisy side. As you can imagine, this can be irritating both for patients and anyone who is sharing a bed with them.
• Inconvenience. Cleaning a CPAP machine can be something of a chore, and traveling with one is cumbersome.

The Advantages of Oral Appliance Therapy

An oral appliance is a custom device that gently shifts the lower jaw in order to promote the free flow of oxygen during sleep. This OSA treatment has some distinct advantages over CPAP therapy:

• Comfort. After an adjustment period, you can expect an oral appliance to feel comfortable in your mouth. No mask is required!
• No skin irritation. Because the appliance is entirely inside your mouth, there are no annoying straps or other bothersome parts to irritate your facial skin.
• Silence. An oral appliance is completely silent.
• Convenience. Cleaning an oral appliance is quick and easy. They are also highly portable; you can just slip yours into your carry-on bag before you jet set around the world!

Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right for You?

Studies indicate that oral appliance therapy has a higher compliance rate than CPAP therapy. If you are interested in finding out if it could be the solution to your CPAP problems, a qualified sleep dentist can evaluate your case and recommend your next steps. Hopefully, you will soon be sleeping soundly and comfortably!

Meet the Practice

Dr. Kenneth Mogell is a highly skilled dentist who is committed to helping patients in Boca Raton and the surrounding communities enjoy higher-quality sleep through oral appliance therapy. If you are curious about this treatment option, he and our team would be happy to help you. Reach out to us at 321-265-3462.