Struggling with Sleep Apnea? Find Relief with Customized Solutions
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated breathing interruptions during sleep, you’re not alone. Many individuals initially turn to CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy, but the drawbacks of this treatment often lead them to seek alternative options.
At the Center for Dental Sleep Health in Nashua, NH, Dr. Stephen Ura and his team specialize in providing personalized sleep apnea solutions tailored to your unique needs, including CPAP alternatives and lifestyle modifications. Contact our Nashua practice at (603) 237-1124 to schedule an appointment and start your journey towards restful nights.
The Drawbacks of CPAP
While CPAP machines are effective in treating sleep apnea by delivering continuous airflow through a mask, they come with several drawbacks that can make their use challenging for some patients:
- Loud noise disrupting sleep
- Restricted movement during sleep
- Discomfort from wearing a mask for extended periods
- The claustrophobic feeling from the mask covering the face
- Dry mouth, nose, or eyes due to constant airflow
- Skin irritation or pressure sores caused by the mask
- Difficulty finding a well-fitting mask
Many patients discontinue CPAP therapy within the first year due to these issues, highlighting the need for alternative solutions tailored to individual preferences and needs.
Customized Oral Appliance Therapy
At the Center for Dental Sleep Health, Dr. Ura offers custom-fitted oral appliances as an effective CPAP alternative for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea. These comfortable, discreet devices, similar to dental retainers, are designed to keep your airway open by repositioning your jaw and tongue, preventing obstruction during sleep.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
- Portable and convenient for travel
- Quiet and comfortable to wear overnight
- No cumbersome masks or noisy machines
- Custom-fit for optimal comfort and effectiveness
- Easy to clean and maintain
Positive Lifestyle Modifications
In addition to oral appliance therapy, Dr. Ura may recommend lifestyle changes to complement your sleep apnea treatment plan and promote overall health and well-being:
- Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the airway
- Avoiding alcohol consumption, which can exacerbate sleep apnea symptoms
- Quitting smoking and tobacco products, as nicotine contributes to sleep issues
- Practicing positional therapy, tongue exercises, and nasal decongestants as needed
Surgical Interventions
In some cases, surgical procedures may be recommended to alleviate sleep apnea by addressing underlying structural issues, such as:
- Removing excess soft tissue in the throat
- Correcting a deviated septum
- Opening nasal passages
- Repositioning the jawbone
Our Nashua, NH, team collaborates closely with sleep physicians to ensure a comprehensive and effective treatment approach.
Why Choose Dr. Ura for Your Sleep Apnea Treatment?
With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Ura and his team at the Center for Dental Sleep Health are dedicated to providing personalized, evidence-based solutions for sleep apnea and snoring. As a qualified member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, Dr. Ura adheres to the highest standards of care, ensuring consistent and effective treatment outcomes.
Don’t let sleep apnea rob you of restful nights any longer. Contact us at (603) 237-1124 to schedule your appointment and discover the path to better sleep and improved overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do oral therapy appliances last?
Custom-fitted oral appliances are designed for long-term use but may need replacement after one to two years due to wear and tear on the materials. Your sleep dentist will monitor the condition of your appliance and advise you on when a replacement is necessary.
How soon can I expect to see improvement after starting a CPAP alternative?
The time frame for experiencing improvement can vary, ranging from several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of your sleep apnea and the specific treatment approach. Regular follow-up appointments with your sleep dentist are essential to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.
How often should I undergo a sleep study to monitor my sleep apnea?
The frequency of sleep studies depends on individual factors, such as the severity of your condition, the effectiveness of your treatment, and any changes in your symptoms or health status. Your sleep dentist will recommend an appropriate schedule based on your unique circumstances, typically ranging from every one to two years for stable cases to more frequent monitoring for those with more severe or complex conditions.
Will my insurance cover the cost of the oral appliance therapy?
Most medical insurance providers cover or provide partial coverage for oral appliance therapy as a treatment for sleep apnea. It’s essential to check with your specific insurance plan to understand your coverage details. Our office can also provide information on financing options to make your treatment more affordable.
Call Dr. Ura and Get Your Sleep Back
Take the first step towards restful nights and improved overall health. Contact the Center for Dental Sleep Health in Nashua, NH, at (603) 237-1124 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Ura and explore the best sleep apnea treatment options for your needs. You can also fill out our online contact form, and a member of our team will respond promptly.
We proudly serve the Nashua community and surrounding areas, including Hudson, Merrimack, and Milford, NH. Don’t let sleep apnea disrupt your life any longer – discover the path to better sleep with our personalized solutions.