Alternative to CPAP
If you have mild to moderate OSA or obstructive sleep apnea, you may be a candidate for an oral device that can be used as an alternative to CPAP therapy to treat your sleep apnea. People who suffer from OSA have other alternatives that don’t involve surgery or a CPAP machine. If you have tried and failed CPAP or desire an alternative to CPAP, oral appliance therapy may be an excellent option for you.
Dr. Kinard is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and a preferred dental appliance provider. Dental appliances work much like mouth guards and are custom made to fit your mouth. A Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) is an anti-snoring device that helps to diminish any restriction that occurs in the back of the throat by moving the jaw and tongue forward. By advancing them, the jaw and tongue move away from the back of the throat. This increases the size of the upper airway, thus reducing the air resistance that leads to snoring.
A Mandibular Advancement Device is a highly effective alternative to CPAP for patients who do not tolerate CPAP or who prefer an alternative.
CPAP Therapy
CPAP therapy is the oldest and most common form of OSA treatment. However, about 50% of patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea are unable to tolerate wearing a CPAP or do not wear it as prescribed due to side effects. Despite being a highly effective form of treatment, CPAP machines often go unused because patients find them cumbersome and uncomfortable.
People with obstructive sleep apnea attach a mask connected to a tube and machine while they sleep. Although the machines have gotten better over time, some still find them impossible to live with as they are difficult to clean and even harder to travel with.
Oral Appliance Therapy with a Dental Appliance
Oral appliance therapy is a non-surgical treatment that, for some patients, can be more comfortable than a CPAP machine. Dental appliances are also small, easy to take care of and easy to travel with. Most importantly, finding a treatment option that is worn consistently will best treat your condition and the other co-existing conditions that are exacerbated by untreated sleep apnea.
Dental Appliances are Excellent CPAP Alternatives as they:
Gently hold your bottom jaw forward keeping your airways open
Eliminate loud snoring by as much as 90 percent
Are small, effective and very comfortable
Approved by the FDA
Are covered by Medicare and medical insurance
