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CPAP therapy effectively manages obstructive sleep apnea for many people, but not everyone finds it comfortable or easy to use. Some people struggle with the mask, air pressure, noise, or the maintenance required when using a sleep apnea machine in Mansfield, TX.
When you don’t wear your CPAP, your sleep apnea is going untreated. When CPAP is difficult to tolerate, oral appliance therapy can provide another treatment option and let you sleep better without CPAP.
What is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral appliance therapy uses a small, custom-made device to position your jaw and help keep your airway open while you sleep. This small appliance rests over your teeth much like a mouth guard. It gently positions your lower jaw forward, which is what keeps your airway open.
Unlike CPAP, an oral appliance doesn’t need a mask, tubing, compressor, or electricity. It’s small enough so you can travel with it easily and is convenient for those who share a bed. A sleep apnea dentist receives specialized training to custom-make these devices to fit you and your anatomy.
Who Can Benefit From an Oral Appliance?
Oral appliance therapy is commonly used for people with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. It may also be considered for those with more severe sleep apnea who cannot tolerate CPAP, but this is up to your sleep apnea dentist.
If you’re searching for a sleep apnea dentist near me, a comprehensive dental and sleep evaluation can help determine whether this CPAP alternative is a good fit for you based on your sleep apnea severity, jaw position, dental health, and other factors.
If you are considering an oral appliance, it can take time to get used to. Some people report discomfort at first, but it often improves as their jaw muscles adjust to the new position overnight.
Sleep Apnea Machine vs. CPAP Alternative
One of the biggest differences between oral appliance therapy and CPAP therapy is how they keep your airway open. A CPAP machine pushes pressurized air through a mask to keep your airway open. An oral appliance works differently by physically repositioning your jaw to help keep the airway open. For people interested in sleeping without a CPAP machine, an oral appliance may offer a more comfortable and convenient option.
Better Sleep Apnea Treatment is in Mansfield, TX
The right treatment depends on your individual needs. If you or a loved one are struggling trying to treat sleep apnea but can’t tolerate a CPAP machine, schedule an appointment today. We can explore a CPAP alternative in Mansfield that may help you manage sleep apnea without relying on a CPAP machine.
