Discover a More Comfortable Alternative to CPAP Therapy in Jupiter

March 20, 2019

If you have sleep apnea, it is extremely important that you receive treatment. Your long-term health depends on it! You may have heard about CPAP therapy in Jupiter, which is the most commonly prescribed treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, many patients find that the CPAP mask is uncomfortable, and it is inconvenient to take their machine with them when they travel. Fortunately, CPAP alternatives are available for most patients who suffer from OSA. Let’s take a moment to talk about these treatments and how they may be able to benefit you.

CPAP Alternatives

Some ways to address OSA that do not involve CPAP include:

  • Oral myofunctional therapy. This strengthens the tongue and helps it to stay in its proper resting position so it doesn’t block the airway at night.
  • Weight loss. Many obese patients who lose weight find that their OSA symptoms are drastically reduced or disappear altogether.
  • Surgery. Surgery can address structural issues in the mouth and surrounding areas that cause OSA, enabling patients to breathe easier at night.
  • Oral appliance therapy. A dentist can design an oral appliance that gently repositions the jaw at night, allowing for freer airflow.

Finding the Best CPAP Alternative

All of the above-mentioned CPAP alternative can be effective. However, weight loss is challenging, and it may be several months before the weight loss is significant enough to reduce OSA symptoms. Similarly, it may take some time before oral myofunctional therapy produces noticeable results. Surgery can quickly correct structural issues in the jaw, nose, or mouth, but it can be quite expensive. Plus, no matter how experienced a surgeon is, any type of surgery involves a degree of risk.

Many patients discover that oral appliance therapy is ideal for them. A device is quite small, making it easy to pack for travel. Plus, after a sleep medicine expert examines you and designs the device, it won’t be long before you have your device in hand. Most people who use an oral appliance find that it is quite comfortable and easy to get used to.

Of course, if you receive an oral appliance, that doesn’t mean you should forget about other ways to address your OSA. For example, your oral appliance can help you get higher quality rest, which may just give you the energy boost you need to succeed with your weight loss program.

Obstructive sleep apnea in Jupiter is dangerous, but it is one of the most treatable sleep disorders. After you research your treatment options and discuss them with your doctor, you may just find that oral appliance therapy or another CPAP alternative is perfect for you.

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell is a dentist with over 30 years of experience in his field. He is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. If you would like his help to address your obstructive sleep apnea via oral appliance therapy, contact our team today via our website, or call one of our convenient locations.