If you are looking for sleep apnea treatment, you may have seen several options available. Sleep apnea is when someone stops and starts breathing during sleep. It’s a serious condition that can make you tired, cause headaches, and more. Two common treatments are CPAP therapy and oral appliances. Getting to know how they vary will aid you in making a good choice for health.
The first step is to talk to an expert who might be able to diagnose your problem and advise on the same. A sleep apnea dentist in Mississauga can discuss treatment options that suit your lifestyle and comfort. Discover which treatment will be best for you.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition where your airway gets blocked as you sleep, and you breathe less. The symptoms are heavy snoring, fatigue during the day, headaches in the morning, and problems concentrating. Sleep apnea can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes if untreated.
There are several treatment options for sleep apnea, but CPAP therapy and oral appliance therapy are two of the best. Choosing the suitable one relies on seriousness, comfort, and patient choice.
What is CPAP Therapy
CPAP, or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, is the most commonly suggested treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. It consists of wearing a mask over your nose or mouth when you are sleeping. The mask pumps air through the nose, so the airway can remain open.
There are many benefits of CPAP therapy:
- It is very effective for severe obstructive sleep apnea
- It reduces snoring a great deal
- It can boost energy and your overall health
Some of the challenges include:
- Some patients do not like the mask
- Some patients may need time to adjust
- Travelling can be difficult with the machine
Oral appliance therapy: What is it?
Oral devices are custom-designed oral appliances that are placed in the mouth while sleeping. They are used to reposition the jaw and the tongue to maintain an open airway.
Benefits of oral appliances:
- Comfortable and portable
- Easier for travelling
- Less invasive than CPAP for mild to moderate sleep apnea
Disadvantages could be:
- While less effective for severe cases
- Can cause jaw soreness or teeth sensitivity initially
- Needs to be followed up on and adjusted.
CPAP vs Oral Appliance
When it comes to CPAP vs oral appliances, both have their pros and cons. CPAP works great for someone who is having a severe case, while oral appliances are a popular choice for patients who want something easier.
The treatment depends on how serious the sleep apnea is for the individual, along with comfort and lifestyle. At times, the doctor-dentist duo recommends combination approaches for maximum benefits.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
A change in lifestyle for sleep apnea treatment near you can include.
- Weight management.
- Avoid alcohol before bedtime.
- Sleep on your side instead of on your back.
Using these methods along with CPAP or oral appliance therapy can help with treatment success.
Choosing the Best Treatment for Sleep Apnea
Only a healthcare professional can determine the best treatment for sleep apnea. A dentist who specializes in sleep apnea can evaluate your jaw structure, sleeping patterns, and airway obstruction to prescribe an appropriate appliance if required. CPAP is the standard of care for severe cases, but patient compliance is crucial.
Get Expert Sleep Apnea Care
If you are having symptoms of sleep apnea, IONA Dental can help. Our team offers personalized assessments, professional guidance, and the best treatment options available to help you sleep better and feel better. You can book an appointment today for better sleep.