Find Sleep Apnea Treatment That Works For You
When a patient is diagnosed with sleep apnea, one of the first treatments sleep dentists frequently recommend is CPAP machine therapy. But this machine has its drawbacks, leaving many patients searching for a CPAP alternative that won’t keep them up at night.
That’s why our Nashua, NH, sleep dentist, Dr. Stephen Ura, and his team work hard to provide you with high-quality CPAP alternatives, so you can get the rest you need without relying on a noisy, bulky machine.
The Drawbacks of CPAP
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is a treatment for sleep apnea that helps keep the airway open during sleep by providing a continuous flow of air through a mask that covers your nose and mouth. However, it has some drawbacks that make it challenging for patients to use:
- Loud noise
- Limitations on movement during sleep
- Uncomfortable to wear for long periods
- May feel claustrophobic with a mask over the face
- Dry mouth, nose, or eyes
- Skin irritation or pressure sores from the mask
- Difficulty finding a comfortable mask fit
Many patients stop using CPAP after less than a year because they experience discomfort while using it. It’s crucial for your health to find a CPAP alternative that’s comfortable and works for you. If you’ve already tried CPAP and found it challenging, or if you’re seeking treatment for sleep apnea for the first time, Dr. Ura will work with you to determine the best treatment option.
Oral Appliances
At the Center for Dental Sleep Health, many sleep apnea patients find relief using our convenient, custom oral appliances. Similar in appearance to a dental retainer, an oral appliance is a CPAP alternative designed to treat sleep apnea by preventing your tongue and soft oral tissue from obstructing your airway. These portable dental mouthpieces can effectively treat mild to moderate sleep apnea patients.
Since we design your oral appliance just for you, it’ll fit comfortably in your mouth. It’s small, quiet, and doesn’t require a power source, so you can take it anywhere.
Positive Lifestyle Changes
Along with CPAP alternatives, Dr. Ura may also recommend dietary changes and positive lifestyle changes that can help alleviate your sleep apnea symptoms. These healthy steps can also enhance your overall health and well-being:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Maintaining healthy body weight is crucial in reducing the risk and severity of sleep apnea, as obesity and being overweight increase the likelihood of developing this sleep disorder. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes narrowed and blocks the flow of air, and excess weight can worsen this by putting extra pressure on the airway.
- Avoid alcohol consumption: Alcohol use contributes to the effects of sleep apnea, especially when you drink before bedtime. Sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in your throat relax and allow the tissue to fall back into your throat, blocking the airway. The process is exacerbated by alcohol.
- Quit tobacco: Tobacco products damage your health in numerous ways. Research demonstrates that the nicotine in tobacco makes patients more susceptible to sleep issues, including sleep apnea. Quitting tobacco isn’t easy, but it will improve your sleep quality and overall health — The American Cancer Society has resources that can help.
Additional Sleep Apnea Strategies
Several additional treatment strategies for sleep apnea can work with or without other interventions. These are all methods patients can use to help support healthy respiratory function:
- Tongue retaining devices
- Nasal decongestants
- Positional therapy
- Tongue exercises
In some cases, a sleep physician will recommend surgical treatment for sleep apnea. Common surgical procedures for alleviating sleep apnea include:
- Removing and repositioning extra soft tissue in the throat
- Correcting a deviated septum
- Opening the nasal passage
- Repositioning the jawbone forward
We’ll work closely with a sleep physician to ensure you achieve the best possible results from sleep apnea treatment. Discover the benefits of a full night’s sleep and wake up feeling renewed and ready for a new day with the help of Dr. Ura and our Nashua dental team.
Why Choose Dr. Ura for Your CPAP Alternatives?
For over 30 years, Dr. Ura and his Nashua dental team have been passionate about providing treatment for patients seeking a healthier life through improved sleep. Dr. Ura is a qualified member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, which requires a designated level of education and successful completion of an examination. The office follows protocols established by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine for consistent and effective care.
Our Nashua dental sleep practice provides oral appliances to treat sleep apnea and snoring. Our team has proven its knowledge through remarkable, lasting results. See what our patients are saying about Dr. Ura!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do oral therapy appliances last?
Custom oral appliances aren’t designed to last a lifetime. Typically, an oral appliance will last between one and two years. After that, the materials start to weaken, and the device loses efficiency. If you choose an oral appliance for sleep apnea, your sleep dentist will notify you when it’s time for a replacement.
How long does it take to see improvement after starting a CPAP alternative?
It can take several weeks to several months to see improvement after starting sleep apnea treatment, as it takes time for the body to adjust to the new treatment. The improvement can also depend on the severity of sleep apnea and the treatment used. Regular follow-up appointments with a sleep dentist are important to track the progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
How often should I get a sleep study done to monitor my sleep apnea?
The frequency of sleep studies to monitor sleep apnea varies from person to person and can depend on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of the treatment. Some people may only need a sleep study every one to two years, while others may need more frequent studies. It’s best to consult with your sleep dentist to recommend a schedule based on your needs.
Will my insurance cover oral therapy appliances?
In most cases, the cost of your CPAP alternative will be covered or supplemented by your medical insurance provider. It’s best to contact your insurance provider to review and understand your coverage. Ask your sleep dentist if their office provides financing plans.
Call Dr. Ura and Get Your Sleep Back
Reclaim quality sleep today with CPAP alternatives. Dr. Ura and his dental team work diligently to make sure our patients have sleep apnea treatment options to get a better night’s rest. Contact our Nashua, NH, dental office at (603) 236-1124 if you want to learn more about CPAP alternatives. Dr. Ura and our team will be happy to answer any questions or concerns.
Fill out our online contact form, and one of our team members will get back to you promptly. Dr. Ura and our team proudly provide sleep apnea services to the Nashua community and surrounding areas such as Hudson, Merrimack, and Milford, NH.