Oral Appliance Therapy: A Comfortable Alternative to CPAP for Sleep Apnea Patients
Did you know that instead of using a CPAP machine, patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea can work with their dentist to find an alternative treatment method? Drs. Monica Anand, Anshuman Rawat, and the team at Westwood Dentistry in Westwood, Massachusetts, educate patients on their options and find that many are excited to address their sleep-disordered breathing with an oral appliance for sleep apnea as another solution to the uncomfortable CPAP device.
What is obstructive sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea, sometimes referred to by the acronym OSA, is a sleep-breathing disorder that causes patients to stop breathing several times during the night while they are sleeping. It is caused by a blockage in the airway that jolts patients awake, several times a night. This condition can cause daytime fatigue and can contribute to various medical problems. This is why treatment is so important.
How can obstructive sleep apnea be treated with an oral appliance?
Most patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea by their primary care physician or a sleep physician will often be advised to use a CPAP machine. This device is large, uncomfortable, and difficult to travel with. Instead, our dental team at Westwood Dentistry encourages patients to ask about oral appliance therapy. Oral appliance therapy for obstructive sleep apnea includes wearing a special mouthguard that keeps the jaw aligned, the tongue forward, and the airways open in a less intrusive way. It is more comfortable, easy to travel with, and well-received, ensuring compliance for many years!
What are some signs of obstructive sleep apnea?
Do you suspect you have obstructive sleep apnea but have not been to the doctor for a definitive diagnosis? Some of the more common symptoms of OSA include:
- Loud and persistent snoring
- Choking or gasping for breath during sleep
- Daytime fatigue and drowsiness
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
Is oral appliance therapy right for me?
We invite patients to call Westwood Dentistry to learn more about using oral appliances for sleep apnea—call (781) 514-6443 to work with Drs. Anand, Rawat, and the team will discuss your options.
