Pros & Cons Of Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea

Pros & Cons Of Oral Appliances for Sleep ApneaTreatment for obstructive sleep apnea requires relief of a patient’s airway obstruction and that may be done with oral appliances, Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP), or Positive Air Pressure (PAP) therapy. Oral appliances must be fitted with help from a qualified sleep apnea dentist such as Dr. Carol Jin, DDS who offers consultations for patients in the San Ramon, California area.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstruction of one’s airway often occurs when the lower jaw, relaxes during sleep and falls backward into a different position. The tongue also shifts to the back of the throat, potentially blocking the airway.

How Oral Appliances Help

Dental appliances relieve symptoms in several ways. They can be used to move a patient’s lower jaw forward and thereby clear the airway. Or a device may keep a patient’s tongue in place and prevent it from slipping back to cover the airway. Additionally, dental devices may do these therapies at the same time.

Sleep Apnea Dental Appliances—Pros

  • Possibly Effective Treatment Option For Moderately Obstructive Apnea
  • Convenient & Great For Active Lifestyle & Travel
  • It May Be A Good Option When Patients Are Non-Compliant With CPAP Masks.
  • Non-Claustrophobic

Sleep Apnea Dental Appliances—Cons

  • A Qualified Dentist Must Custom Fit
  • Tongue Retainers May Activate Salivary Glands
  • Some Patients May Find It Uncomfortable
  • May Not Relieve Severe Obstructive Apnea
  • May Be Problematic For Patients With TMJ Issues

How CPAP & PAP Machines Help

CPAP and PAP machines work with an air hose and mask to blow air into your lungs, thus reducing the number of times you stop breathing. The positive air pressure may be continuous, as with the CPAP unit, or not as determined by your doctor or specialist. Air pressure settings on the machine are specific to your airway needs. Masks may cover the nose, mouth, or both, depending on your own breathing habits.

Pros Of Sleep Apnea CPAP & PAP Therapy

  • Improves Sleep Quality By Reducing The Number Of Apneas & Hypopneas Per Hour
  • Provides Immediate Feedback On Sleep Quality With Sleep Data
  • Relieves Headaches & Groggy Morning Feeling
  • Lowers Blood Pressure Because Of Added Oxygen
  • Battery & Solar Compatible Options Available

Cons Of Sleep Apnea CPAP & PAP Therapy

  • Adjustment Period Required For Sleeping With Masks & Tubing
  • The Perceived Stigma Of Wearing A Mask To Bed
  • Extra Carry-On Bag For Flights, Though Free As Medical Equipment
  • Power Supply Needed

Call For An Appointment

Let us help you determine if oral devices are a good fit for you. San Ramon area residents should call or come in for an appointment with Dr. Carol Jin, DDS today.