Sleep apnea is a medical condition that can be treated through oral appliance therapy as well as CPAP machines. Both forms of treatment have been proven successful, which is why they are both highly recommended. However, both methods are also quite different, which is why it is necessary to be aware of how both work.
Oral appliances are commonly used for dental sleep apnea treatment. It is important to understand how they differ from CPAP machines, as well as the additional benefits that come with them. Keep reading to find out more!
Outlined below are the main differences between oral appliance therapy and CPAP machines. Aside from their providers, they both have a few key differences that are worth noting.
Oral appliances that are used for dental sleep apnea treatment usually consist of tongue-retaining devices and mandibular advancement devices. Both types of oral appliances are worn during the night, while the patient is sleeping. And, the goal for both appliances is to help the patient’s airway to remain open so that obstruction does not take place. Dentists can administer the appliances and custom make them so that they perfectly fit the patient’s mouth.
Mandibular advancement devices, also known as a MAD looks very similar to a mouthguard or night guard. They snap over the lower and upper dental arches, and both ends have metal hinges that help to hold the lower jaw in a forward position. This forward position helps keep the airway open during the night.
Tongue-retaining devices, on the other hand, look more like a dental splint, shaped like a pacifier. There is a hole in the middle of the appliance in which the tongue sits in throughout the night. Sleep apnea symptoms are prevented with this oral appliance because the tongue is held forward, allowing for more airflow to reach the back of the throat.
A CPAP machine is typically administered by doctors at an office or a hospital. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure, which translates to a continuous airflow being provided while the patient is sleeping.
The CPAP machine works very differently than a simple oral appliance. Instead of it just being a mouth piece, there is a motorized machine with a hose, as well as a mask for the nose. The mask delivers constant air pressure to the patient’s airway so that obstruction is less likely to take place.
Being aware of the differences between CPAP machines and oral appliance therapies can be helpful when considering different sleep apnea treatments. Any questions or concerns regarding either treatment should be directed to a medical professional or dentist.
Our team can help get you started with the treatment that you need. Oral appliance therapy can make a significant difference in your sleeping patterns. Give us a call or stop by our office today; we are here to assist you!
Request an appointment here: https://www.ultimatesmiles.com or call North County Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry at (760) 940-2273 for an appointment in our Vista office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Do I Have Sleep Apnea in Vista, CA.
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