A Comparison of Sleep Apnea Treatments: CPAP vs Dental Oral Appliance
Looking for beneficial information on sleep apnea treatment? Since there are different treatments available, understanding the differences is important. It is crucial for those who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea to find a treatment that is right for them.
Choosing the right treatment
While some sleep apnea patients can address their sleep apnea diagnosis by making certain lifestyle changes, most patients will need to choose either an oral dental appliance or a CPAP machine to help them breathe easier during the night. Since some advantages and disadvantages come with each option, comparing these two options is essential to making the right decision.
Comparing sleep apnea treatments
When a dental patient is diagnosed with sleep apnea, it is important to understand the differences between certain treatment options in order to make the right decision. Once the differences are understood, it should be easier to make a choice on which sleep apnea treatment option will be ideal. Below is information on two popular sleep apnea treatment options – CPAP machines and oral appliance therapy.
Dental oral appliances
Oral appliance therapy is commonly used to help dental patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Two more commonly prescribed oral appliances include mandibular repositioning and tongue retaining devices. Mandibular repositioning devices are used to help keep the jaw and the tongue in a forward position, allowing sleep apnea sufferers to breathe easier during the night. Tongue retaining devices only focus on keeping the tongue in the mouth's front and allowing for easier breathing.
Dental sleep apnea treatment is often the first choice of treatment. Dental patients who choose this route will attend a consultation appointment with an experienced dentist to determine which oral appliance is right for them. Once a decision is made, the oral appliance will be custom-made for the patient. This allows the appliance to fit properly and work exactly as it is supposed to since oral dental appliances are custom-made, so patients can expect them to be comfortable when wearing them at night.
CPAP
CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure and is a breathing therapy device that forces air into the patient's airway as they breathe during the night. It is necessary for patients to wear a mask over their nose and mouth, as this is how the air is delivered to them. The constant flow of air helps sleep apnea sufferers continue breathing during the night, as the airflow helps to remind one's body to breathe. It is essential for patients to follow all CPAP instructions carefully, as well as understand some of the more common problems associated with CPAP machines, e.g., dry mouth, skin irritations, and feeling claustrophobic.
Conclusion
Those living with sleep apnea should now understand the difference between using a CPAP machine and an oral dental appliance. However, setting up a consultation with a dentist is the next step for more personalized information.
Are you considering Sleep apnea treatment in the Houston area? To learn more, visit https://www.blockdental1.com or call us to schedule an appointment at (281) 500-9989.
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