Are Oral Appliances True Alternatives to CPAP Devices?

October 12, 2017

Obstructive sleep apnea in Bethel, CT and Danbury, CT is a serious condition in which you stop breathing while you sleep—sometimes as many as hundreds of times. As a result, you don’t get enough sleep and oxygen. This, in turn, can cause stress and hasten conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. What can help?

CPAP Device

One common treatment to aid with this disorder is the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device. With this sleep apnea treatment, the individual is fitted with a mask attached to a machine that that provides a continuous flow of air through your airways while you sleep. This applies more airflow pressure in the throat, so when the sleeping individual takes a breath the airway doesn’t collapse. This results in more consistent and better sleep, which helps with a wide range of health.

However, some people find the CPAP devices intrusive. The masks which may cover the mouth and/or nose may be uncomfortable and the machines may seem overwhelming.

Oral Appliance Alternative

There is an oral appliance alternative to CPAP machines. With this approach, a doctor fits an individual with a Thornton Adjustable Positioner or Respire Blue Series. These are oral appliances similar to a retainer or mouth guard. They function by adjusting the alignment of the jaw to keep the airway open and working during sleep and are effective for many people. Oral appliances are friendlier than CPAP devices in that they are much smaller and easy to care for. If you love traveling, oral appliances are a breeze to pack and take along.

Similar to the CPAP device, oral appliances aid with snoring issues.  However, if the sleep apnea is severe or even moderate, a CPAP device might be the best bet. Oral appliances are effective primarily with mild to moderate cases.

Contact You Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Specialists

Bethel, CT dentists, Dr. Perotta and Dr. SanGiacomo, can help individuals get fitted with an oral appliance. To make an appointment contact us online or call our office near Danbury, CT at (203) 743-5600 about your sleep apnea today!

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