Sleep apnea is a serious and potentially deadly sleep disorder, and if you're affected it's vital to seek treatment. If you've been diagnosed with sleep apnea you have a couple of options for treatment, including the CPAP, as well as oral devices provided by your dentist.
Is a CPAP Your Best Option for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
The defining feature of sleep apnea is that while you're asleep, you stop breathing for short periods of time due to airway obstruction. For people with mild sleep apnea this might happen a few times a night, but for people with a serious case of apnea, it can happen dozens of times every hour.
The most effective way of treating sleep apnea is with a device called a continuous positive airway pressure machine, or CPAP. It ensures that your airway stays open while you're asleep and that you get enough oxygen. The CPAP can treat almost all cases of sleep apnea, but many people find that wearing the CPAP mask and breathing hose is difficult and uncomfortable.
What's the Alternative to the CPAP?
If you're a good candidate for the device, your dentist can provide a sleep apnea treatment that's much easier to wear, and is just as effective. This device is similar to a mouthguard and is worn in the mouth while you sleep. It holds your jaw in a position that ensures your airway stays open while you're asleep, so it prevents episodes of apnea.
These devices are custom-made to fit your mouth, to maximize their effectiveness. As well as being a treatment for sleep apnea, they can also be a good way to prevent or reduce snoring, as this is often caused by mild airway obstruction.
Which Treatment Should You Use?
The dental device is definitely more comfortable than the CPAP, but not everyone is a good candidate for this device, as it's only suitable for treating mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea.
If you have a severe case of sleep apnea, it's important to use a CPAP so that you're able to breathe safely and consistently throughout the night.
Call Us to Learn More about Sleep Apnea Treatments
Interested in learning whether a dental device can help your sleep apnea problem in Poughkeepsie? For expert advice and great dental care, call Dr. Bhalla today!