Sleep Apnea Treatments & CPAP Alternatives
in Texas
Say Hello to Sleep Apnea Relief
Sleep apnea is a common disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. While continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is the most common treatment for sleep apnea, there are alternative options that may be effective for some patients. Our Texas Dental Sleep Services team is here to help you find the proper treatment you need.
CPAP Therapy
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP therapy), is the most commonly prescribed treatment for sleep apnea. It’s a machine that works by delivering a constant, steady flow of air to your nasal passages through a mask that’s worn while you sleep.
Though effective, many patients complain that their CPAP machine is loud, uncomfortable, and awkward to use. The mask also needs to be removed and reattached each time you get up during the night. The number of restrictions produced by the machine often causes patients to stop using their CPAP altogether.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Research and clinical experience have confirmed that customized oral appliances are an appropriate alternative treatment for a significant number of patients afflicted with sleep apnea. These devices gently shift your jaw forward, keeping the airway open while you sleep to provide relief from sleep apnea symptoms.
Oral appliances are custom-made to fit your mouth and can be used to treat snoring, sleep apnea, and upper airway resistance syndrome. They’re silent, discreet, and easy to use for maximum convenience.
Natural Remedies for Relief
In addition to CPAP and oral appliances, there are several lifestyle changes and treatments that can help relieve snoring and sleep apnea symptoms, such as:
- Losing weight can reduce excess tissue that’s blocking your airway
- Positional therapy, or adjusting your sleep position, can improve breathing patterns
- Throat and mouth exercises strengthen your muscles to reduce symptoms
- Avoiding tobacco use can lessen the severity of your condition
- Reducing alcohol consumption can improve the quality of your sleep
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, CPAP therapy works! When fitted and used correctly, CPAP is an effective method of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It will only work if the mask and air pressure are properly adjusted to your individual needs. CPAP must be worn every time you sleep, and removed and reattached each time you get up at night.
However, many patients dislike their CPAP and stop using it altogether because it’s awkward and uncomfortable. Several sleep dentists offer oral appliances as a small, quiet, and more convenient alternative to CPAP therapy. These appliances are a great way to tackle sleep apnea symptoms, allowing you to get the good night’s rest you deserve.
Yes, there are several minor and short-term side effects of CPAP therapy, but they should subside within a few days after stopping use. Some of these include:
- Sore or dry mouth
- A feeling of claustrophobia from the mask
- Nasal congestion, runny nose, sinusitis, or nosebleeds
- Irritation or sores around the nose
- Stomach bloating and discomfort
- Discomfort in chest muscles
Oral appliance therapy is an effective alternative to CPAP for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. This oral device is custom-made to perfectly fit your unique bite, providing greater comfort and adjustability than CPAP. It’s quiet, discreet, and best of all, it doesn’t require you to wear an uncomfortable mask overnight.
Some insurance providers will pay for a portion of your treatment for sleep apnea, but others do not. We recommend contacting your provider ahead of time to get a complete understanding of your coverage. Several sleep dental practices can assist you with billing your insurance company and help you make the most of your benefits. You can also ask the dental office if they offer flexible payment options to ensure each patient receives the quality care they deserve.
Find the Right Solution With Texas Dental Sleep Services
When left untreated, sleep apnea can take a toll on your everyday life and overall well-being. It’s important to seek professional treatment as soon as possible to prevent serious health complications. To learn about our sleep apnea solutions, contact our Dallas office at (214) 272-0770 or simply fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. Or find a doctor in your area.
We treat patients in our offices, as well as at nursing homes, assisted living centers, and retirement communities in our four main centers: Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, and the Valley (McAllen). We look forward to seeing you soon!
