How to treat obstructive sleep apnea without the use of a CPAP machine

Sleep apnea can make getting a good night’s rest harder than it should be, and treatment should fit comfortably into your routine. While CPAP is a common option for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), some adults may be able to manage their condition with a custom oral appliance instead.

At Aesthetic Dentistry of Georgetown in Georgetown, TX, our team has experience in sleep and airway care. Dr. Mandy Holley and Dr. Mark Duncan have advanced training in sleep, airway, and functional dentistry, while Dr. Devin Tompkins and Dr. Chandler Herman provide comprehensive dental care.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common type, occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked. These breathing interruptions can disrupt restful sleep and may contribute to snoring, daytime fatigue, and other health concerns.

Can You Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea Without CPAP?

Some people with OSA can use oral appliance therapy as an alternative to CPAP. Clinical guidelines recommend considering oral appliances for adults who cannot tolerate CPAP or prefer another therapy. CPAP remains an important treatment and is generally more effective at improving certain sleep-breathing measures, so discuss any treatment changes with your sleep and dental care team.

A custom oral appliance is worn in your mouth while you sleep. It gently positions your lower jaw forward to help prevent your tongue and other soft tissues from restricting your airway.

What Are the Benefits of an Oral Appliance?

For the right person, a sleep apnea dental appliance can make nightly treatment simpler. Compared with a CPAP setup, an oral appliance is:

• Small and easy to travel with
• Free of masks and tubing
• Quiet during use
• Custom-made for your mouth

Custom, adjustable appliances are recommended over non-custom devices when oral appliance therapy is prescribed for an adult with OSA. Regular dental follow-up and follow-up sleep testing are also recommended to monitor treatment.

Find a CPAP Alternative in Georgetown, TX

You don’t have to stop treating sleep apnea simply because CPAP is difficult for you. Aesthetic Dentistry can evaluate your mouth and airway and discuss whether oral appliance therapy fits your needs. 

To schedule a consultation in Georgetown, TX, call 512-819-9100.