If you’ve recently been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, you may be worried that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the only treatment option you have. These systems are effective, but many patients struggle to adjust to the sounds or sensations caused by their CPAP systems. A dentist can provide a viable alternative treatment option. Oral appliance therapy keeps the airway clear using just a small, portable, comfortable mouthguard rather than large facial masks and noisy air pumps. They’re not effective in treating all cases of sleep apnea. Sufferers of central sleep apnea, which occurs when the brain fails to trigger the body to inhale during sleep, will not receive adequate relief from sleep apnea therapy using oral appliances. Additionally, those who have severe obstructive sleep apnea may be better served by using a CPAP system or combined oral appliance and CPAP therapy. For patients with mild to moderate apnea, oral appliances may be a great option.
(more…)