You may have heard of a CPAP machine. You most likely know someone who uses one. It is typically the go-to treatment for sleep apnea. What you may not know is that there is an alternative to a CPAP for treating sleep apnea and reducing snoring.
There are many different types of oral appliances. Some are designed to alleviate the effects of teeth grinding, others protect your teeth during contact sports, and others serve orthodontic purposes. Did you know there is an oral appliance for sleep apnea?
Sometimes called a snoring mouthpiece, an oral appliance can reduce snoring and improve nighttime breathing for better quality sleep. When compared to a CPAP there are many advantages. This article will explain sleep apnea and compare the most common treatments so that you can choose the best solution for you.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition that is characterized by loud snoring and pauses in breathing while you sleep. When you lie down, especially on your back, your tongue slides back and your throat tissues relax, obstructing your airway. Snoring occurs when there is a partial blockage and the air causes vibrations as it moves over the tissues. Breathing can stop completely as the airway becomes completely blocked. This may occur for seconds or even minutes until the lack of oxygen causes you to wake up and resume breathing. These frequent interruptions in your natural sleep cycles prevent you from getting quality sleep at night and may have negative effects on your health.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
- Loud snoring
- Teeth grinding
- Headaches
- Waking up out of breath
- Feeling tired
- Lack of energy
- Dozing off easily during the day
- Difficulty focusing
- Irritability
What is a CPAP Machine?
CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. It consists of a mask you wear over your mouth and nose, with some variations covering just the nose, and a strap that goes around your head to hold it in place. The mask is connected to a machine that delivers a constant flow of air that keeps your airway open while you’re sleeping to prevent snoring and promote proper breathing.
What is an Oral Appliance?
An oral appliance is similar to a mouth guard or a retainer. It is typically made of mostly plastic, but may have some metal pieces within the internal structure. An oral appliance that is made for sleep apnea will have an upper and lower portion that fits over your teeth and a hinge connecting them. It holds your jaw in a forward position, preventing your tongue from sliding back toward your throat.
CPAP: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly effective
- Works for all types of sleep apnea
- Can be covered by insurance
Cons:
- Bulky
- Some find it uncomfortable and difficult to get used to
- Not travel-friendly
- Noisy
- Requires frequently cleaning and maintenance
Oral Appliance: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact
- Provided by your dentist
- Silent
- Some find it more comfortable than a CPAP mask
- It can also prevent teeth grinding
Cons:
- May not work for certain rare types of sleep apnea
- Not usually covered by insurance
Weighing the Pros and Cons
As you can see, the number of potential pros and cons does not come out even. However, some pros and cons carry more weight depending on your own situation and preferences. Many patients find that an oral appliance is more convenient and more comfortable than a CPAP. And it only requires a few appointments with your dentist to attain.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Appliances
Will an oral appliance cause my teeth to shift?
Oral appliances that are custom made by your dentist should fit your teeth properly, minimizing the likelihood of shifting teeth. Over the counter products carry a greater risk.
Do I need to see a sleep specialist to get a sleep apnea diagnosis?
No, you don’t need to see a sleep specialist to get an official sleep apnea diagnosis. Your dentist can provide diagnosis through an oral evaluation and discussion of your symptoms.
Contact Dental Associates of Lodi
If you have symptoms of sleep apnea, talk to the experts at Dental Associates of Lodi about your options. A custom oral appliance may be just what you need to stop snoring and get better quality sleep at night for better overall health and wellness.
Call 862-247-8030 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
