Two of the most common and easily accessible apnea treatments are the CPAP and the oral appliance.
These two treatments provide relief to sleep apnea in very different ways. While both are effective, safe, and proven, they have many different pros and cons that you should consider when seeking treatment for your sleep apnea.
CPAP
The CPAP machine is widely revered as the pinnacle of sleep apnea treatment.
It treats poor breathing rhythms by providing a continuous stream of air which simultaneously keeps your passages open and provides plenty of air to keep your system fully oxygenated.
The Pros| CPAP has many pros, the strongest of which is that it is effective in most cases of apnea. Whether you suffer from collapsed airways, a deviated septum, or central sleep apnea, the CPAP can keep you supplied with air and keep those passages open.
CPAP is also reliable. There are very few cases in which it does not do what it claims to. No matter how severe your apnea is, your breathing can usually be improved through a CPAP.
The Cons| CPAP is not particularly mobile. It is difficult to take on a vacation or business trip.
It can also be cumbersome during sleep. While the mask apparatus is streamlined for efficiency, it still limits sleep position, can be uncomfortable to wear, and may be a little loud for those nearby.
The Oral Appliance
Oral appliances are another very popular choice for apnea treatment. This is because they’re easy, compact, and get the job done with little effort.
The Pros| Oral appliances are designed to individually fit you. There is no one-size-fits-all and thus no need to hope that your mouth falls into the right averages. Its custom design means that it will have pressure exactly where you need it.
Oral appliances are also extremely simple. Because they are essentially a custom-built mouthguard, they are highly portable, require no electricity, and are extremely easy to clean and maintain.
They make no noise and allow you to sleep in any position that is comfortable for you.
The Cons| Appliances only work with certain kinds of apnea. If holding your jaw and tongue in place will keep your airways open, then this is the treatment for you. If your sleep disorder is caused by something deeper in the nasal cavity or by central apnea, then a mouthguard will not be as effective.
Talk to Our Office Right Away!
We are glad to walk you through the many ways we can treat your apnea. To schedule an appointment or to ask further questions about these treatment options, talk to us today!