CPAP v. Oral Appliance: Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Many Frisco and Little Elmsleep apnea patients are turning to oral appliance therapy as an alternative to using a CPAP machine.
About one in five Americans suffer from sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by the muscles in the back of your throat relaxing, causing your airway to narrow or close as you breathe. Your brain will sense you’re not breathing well, causing you to wake up and reopen your airways.
How do CPAP machines work?
CPAP therapy is the most common treatment option for obstructive sleep apnea. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. The patient wears a mask that is connected to a CPAP machine by a hose. The machine works by keeping a constant flow of pressurized air to keep the back of the throat from collapsing.
What are common problems with CPAP therapy?
The Mayo Clinic lists ten common problems with CPAP machines:
- Wrong size or ill-fitting masks.
- Difficulty adjusting to wearing the CPAP masks.
- Trouble tolerating forced air all night.
- Dry and stuffy nose.
- Claustrophobia.
- Skin irritation or pressure sores from a leaky mask.
- Difficulty falling asleep.
- Dry mouth.
- Removing mask during the night.
- Noise.
How do oral appliances work?
Dr. Korous offers oral appliance therapy as an alternative to CPAP therapy.
Narval CC is a premier oral appliance crafted from a lightweight, flexible and metal-free biocompatible material.
The appliance works by holding the patient’s jaw in a forward position to extend the space behind the tongue and prevent obstruction.
What are the benefits of appliances?
Many patients report oral appliances are more comfortable than CPAP machines. Appliances offer the flexibility to talk and drink.
Appliances allow patients the freedom to move.
For more information, call our office today to schedule a consultation.