If you or a loved one suffers from sleep apnea, you’ve likely been recommended a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. These are some of the most common forms of treatment for the condition, but if you’ve seen or heard one of these devices in action, then you may dread the idea of using one every night. 

The good news, however, is that a CPAP machine is just one of several treatment options for sleep apnea. At CinciSmiles, a trusted sleep dentist in Cincinnati, can offer a range of alternatives, including custom, oral appliance therapy. An item that is personalized to your needs can make a world of difference, helping you finally sleep soundly and comfortably. Below is everything you need to know.  

What is sleep apnea? 

Sleep apnea is a condition where your breathing repeatedly stops as you sleep, potentially leading to poor rest, health risks, and a negative impact on your overall quality of life. 

In particular, some consequences of untreated sleep apnea include the following:

• Chronic fatigue
• Grogginess/Low energy
• Afternoon crashes
• Frustration (from both you and your partner)

That last implication can be just as bad, if not worse, than the exhaustion itself. If you have a significant other, your sleep apnea could keep both of you awake. In fact, many individuals who struggle with the condition will choose to retreat to a separate room to avoid disturbing their loved ones. And though that kind of move is considerate, it can also place a strain on relationships. 

Why CPAP Isn’t Right for Everyone

A CPAP machine, as its name implies, delivers continuous pressure through a mask to help maintain your airway while you sleep. Unfortunately, many patients find the mask uncomfortable, and the entire device is quite noisy. Additionally, if you travel frequently, you’ll have to pack your machine just to enjoy a good night’s rest. 

To be fair, modern CPAP machines have gotten smaller and quieter; some even feature nose-only masks, which act as a more comfortable alternative to traditional face masks. Nevertheless, they make a noticeable and often disturbing amount of noise. 

The bottom line is that CPAP machines simply aren’t the answer for everyone. But neither is skipping treatment; doing so can worsen symptoms and have long-term health consequences. Thankfully, CinciSmiles is here to offer you a far more accommodating option. 

A Dentist Can Help You Sleep Better—Really

You’ve read that right: A dentist can actually do quite a bit to improve your sleep! At CinciSmiles (and our partner office, CinciSleep), we proudly offer oral appliance therapy, a CPAP-free solution to help patients overcome their sleep apnea. It involves a custom-fit device that will gently reposition your jaw to keep your airway open during sleep.

Unlike CPAP machines, oral appliances are compact, quiet, and easy to use. If you’ve ever worn a mouth guard for sports, an oral appliance will both look and be worn similarly. It will also come with a hard storage case that, given the device’s small size, can easily fit in your pocket. 

You won’t have to plug the appliance in, set aside a bunch of space on your bedside table, or make sure you have room in your suitcase whenever you travel; oral appliance therapy is something that will seamlessly fit into your lifestyle.

Who’s a good fit for oral appliance therapy?

A dental sleep screening at CinciSleep will determine whether the treatment suits you. We’ll assess your symptoms, medical history, and oral health to ensure a personalized fit. 

Generally speaking, oral appliance therapy is a good choice for patients with mild-to-moderate sleep apnea. It’s also great for those who can’t tolerate a CPAP machine due to discomfort or inconvenience.

Why choose a CPAP-free solution?

Sleep apnea treatment doesn’t have to (nor should it) involve wrestling with a noisy machine or bulky mask. Oral appliance therapy offers a quieter, more convenient way to achieve restful sleep, allowing you to wake up refreshed and avoid disruptions to your routine. 

The key to success with a CPAP-free solution is to invest in a quality oral appliance. At CinciSmiles, we use the latest techniques and technology to create a custom device that is not only fitted to your smile but also promotes comfort in the process, meaning you can wear it all night long and still breathe easy. 

Take Control of Your Sleep With CinciSleep

Don’t let sleep apnea leave you feeling run down and exhausted—with oral appliance therapy, CinciSmiles can provide you with a comfortable, effective alternative to bulky CPAP machines! You’ll breathe easier without enduring the discomfort and frustration of a large machine. 

While oral appliances aren’t right for everyone, they are a viable choice for most people with mild-to-moderate sleep apnea. To find out whether it’s the best approach for your needs, book a consultation with our team and explore our CinciSleep services today!