Treating sleep apnea in Ponte Vedra Beach might feel like a never-ending struggle, especially if you were among the many patients whose CPAP machine was recently recalled. However, this device is not the only solution designed to improve sleep and help you breathe easier. Read on to discover the benefits of oral appliance therapy and why many dentists are choosing this unique option for sleep apnea patients.
Why Are CPAP Devices Being Recalled?
According to Phillips Respironics, the company that makes continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, many devices are being recalled because of a foam that is used inside the equipment that may be causing patients to inhale “cancer-causing chemicals.”
Impacting nearly two million individuals in the United States, the CPAP and BiPAP machines can be repaired or replaced within one year, according to the company’s statement. But if you’re uneasy about the prospect of something like this happening again, you may wonder, “What now?”
What is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Many sleep dentists are now providing oral appliance therapy. Similar to a traditional mouthguard, these easy-to-use devices are custom-made to comfortably fit inside your mouth while sleeping. They’re designed to reposition your jaw in a way, so your tongue and palate won’t collapse, causing a blockage to your airway.
Approved by the FDA, they are a safe alternative to a CPAP and provide a less intrusive way to breathe easier and improve your sleep patterns.
What Are the Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy?
For decades, the CPAP machine was the only way to treat individuals with various forms of sleep apnea. However, now that oral appliance therapy is an option, you may first want to know about the many benefits before choosing to seek a sleep dentist in Ponte Vedra Beach who can help.
Some of the most common advantages of these oral devices include:
- They are small and portable, unlike the bulkiness of a CPAP machine, which makes traveling much easier
- They produce no noise and require no attachments, which allows for better sleep
- They are more comfortable to wear simply because all you need to do is insert it into your mouth
- You’re more likely to continue with treatment when wearing a smaller, less bulky device
- They’re made to fit your oral cavity
Don’t let your inability to continue with CPAP therapy keep you from finding help for your sleep apnea. Turn to a professional who can offer oral appliance therapy and watch as your symptoms drastically improve.
About the Author
Dr. Eric Townsend earned his doctorate from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry. As a dentist at Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry, he and his colleagues are dedicated to helping patients get the rest they need. Because sleep apnea is common among adults, and CPAP therapy is a popular treatment option, our team is committed to offering an alternative solution in the form of oral appliance therapy. If you or a loved one need help to breathe easier at night, contact us at (904) 285-7711 to learn more about this easier-to-wear, more convenient device.