Oral Appliance Therapy vs. CPAP: Which Is Right for You?

Are you struggling with loud snoring, excessive daytime fatigue, or waking up tired despite a full night's sleep? You may have obstructive sleep apnea. So, which treatment is right for you: oral appliance therapy or a CPAP machine? 

 For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, oral appliances are a comfortable and practical option. For severe cases, however, CPAP therapy is often more effective. 

At Kaceli Dental Studio in Norwood, MA, we help patients identify the ideal solution so they can get the restful sleep they deserve. Contact us today for an appointment to learn more. 

Understanding sleep apnea 

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition that causes breathing to stop repeatedly during sleep. One of the most noticeable signs is excessive daytime fatigue, which affects your ability to focus and function. 

People with sleep apnea also tend to report issues like gasping or choking during sleep, headaches, and dry mouth. Left untreated, OSA can interfere with your daily life and raise long-term health risks, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. This is why solutions like CPAP therapy and oral appliance therapy may be recommended. 

CPAP therapy: The traditional approach 

A CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine works by delivering a constant stream of air through a mask worn while you sleep. While a CPAP machine can keep the airways open and has helped countless people regain restful sleep, some find the equipment difficult to tolerate, the noise too loud, or the masks too uncomfortable to wear. If you're struggling to consistently use your CPAP machine, you might not be reaping the full benefits of treatment. 

How oral appliance therapy works 

Oral appliance therapy involves using a small, custom-fit device worn like a mouth guard during sleep. It gently repositions the lower jaw to keep the airway open. This approach is especially effective for those with milder cases of sleep apnea who may not tolerate CPAP well. 

Patients often choose this option because it's quiet, portable, and easy to maintain. Oral appliance therapy is also well-suited for travel and doesn't interfere with sleep partners. 

Comparing the options 

When deciding between a CPAP machine and oral appliance therapy in Norwood, MA, consider these factors:  

• Condition severity: CPAP is usually used for more advanced cases, while oral appliances can effectively manage mild to moderate sleep apnea. 
• Lifestyle and comfort: Oral appliances are low-profile, while CPAP requires a power source and equipment setup. 
• Adherence: More people stick with oral appliances long-term, especially if they're looking to improve the quality of their sleep overall. 

Which option is right for you? 

Choosing a treatment depends on your individual diagnosis and lifestyle. If you're dealing with loud snoring or notice signs like frequent waking or persistent tiredness, a sleep evaluation can help determine the right approach. At Kaceli Dental Studio, we specialize in personalizing treatments to fit your needs. During a comprehensive consultation, we'll review your symptoms and recommend a way to move forward. 

Get better sleep now 

If excessive daytime fatigue, poor sleep, or loud snoring is affecting your life, don't wait to seek help. Whether you need a comfortable alternative to a CPAP machine or are exploring oral appliance therapy for the first time, we're here to guide you. Contact Kaceli Dental Studio in Norwood, MA, for a consultation and explore proven solutions for mild to moderate sleep apnea.