Avoid Using A CPAP Machine for Obstructive Sleep Apnea with An Alternative Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance

Novi, Michigan area patients who have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea may want to learn more about what can be done to address the problem. While a primary care physician might recommend a CPAP machine, many patients wish to avoid this uncomfortable device. Instead, the team at Mahajan Dentistry is pleased to offer an alternative with a sleep apnea mouthpiece. 

Understanding obstructive sleep apnea

 Also known as OSA, obstructive sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder caused by a blockage in the airways. It causes patients to stop breathing at night, catching their breath. For most sleep apnea patients, this condition can cause them to awaken hundreds of times in one night, resulting in poor sleep quality. Without reaching the deeper, therapeutic levels of sleep each night, patients will deal with the symptoms of poor sleep, including:

• Reduced memory and concentration
• Daytime fatigue
• Increased risk of anxiety and depression
• Chronic headaches and migraines

Why a CPAP? 

The CPAP device is often recommended by primary care physicians when a patient is diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. CPAP stands for “constant positive airway pressure” and is a device with a mask worn while a patient sleeps. However, it can be uncomfortable and challenging to travel with. Instead, patients are welcome to ask their dentist about a sleep apnea treatment without CPAP use, such as a sleep apnea mouthpiece. 

What is an oral device for sleep apnea? 

At Mahajan Dentistry, Dr. Rekha Mahajan and her team provide patients with sleep apnea treatment without CPAP use. An oral appliance for sleep apnea is a specialized mouthpiece that patients wear when they sleep. It fits over the teeth and positions the lower jaw and tongue forward, ensuring an open airway for a good night’s rest. 

How do I learn more about OSA treatment with oral appliances? 

There is no obstructive sleep apnea cure, but there is a way to get a good night’s sleep without cumbersome CPAP. If you live in the Novi, MI area and want to learn more about oral appliances for sleep apnea, call the team at Mahajan Dentistry at (248) 971-2200 to request an appointment. The office is located in Suite #140 at 23965 Novi Road and accepts new patients and families.

Sleep Apnea

Video Transcript

Do you snore excessively? Do you suffer from daytime fatigue? Do you awake during the night with shortness of breath? You may suffer from the life-threatening sleep disorder known as sleep apnea. About 1 in every 15 Americans suffer from sleep apnea and it is a problem that many don’t even realize they might have. But what does this have to do with dentistry? Because sleep apnea is caused by an airway obstruction, the disorder can be treated through the mouth. The Thorton adjustable positioner, or Tap appliance is one of the more popular ways to treat sleep apnea. When the jawbone yes lax, the tongue and soft tissue obstruct the airway. The tap appliance advances the jaw bone, allowing the air to flow freely and making sleep more restful throughout the night. If you think you might suffer from sleep apnea, talk to your dentist today about possible treatment options.