San Francisco, Marin, and Oakland, CA
Millions of Americans suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. Are you one of them? If you or someone you love is living with this serious sleep breathing disorder, you probably know about CPAP, which is the most common sleep apnea treatment method. However, while CPAP is popular and widespread, it is not your only option for treating sleep apnea. Keep reading to learn how Glen Park Dental can treat your sleep apnea in San Francisco without the need for CPAP.
What is CPAP, and how does it work?
CPAP, an abbreviation for continuous positive airway pressure, consists of using a machine that connects to a mask. The machine generates a continuous stream of air, directed through the mask and into the back of the throat. This steady airflow prevents airway obstructions that lead to apneic events or snoring.
CPAP is not for everyone
Despite its widespread use to treat sleep apnea, many people develop problems with CPAP. However, a recent study found that up to 83 percent of CPAP patients eventually become nonadherent—meaning they fail to use their CPAP for at least four hours per night or five nights per week. When a sleep apnea patient stops using their CPAP as recommended, those same sleep apnea symptoms return.
Why do patients have problems with CPAP?
- Trouble sleeping, either because of the noises made by the machine or struggling to adjust to wearing the mask on their face all night.
- The device can be cumbersome, especially when you travel.
- It may impede intimacy with their partner, or their partner experiences sleeplessness because of the noises the machine makes.
- Runny nose, nasal congestion, or dry mouth from the air pressure generated by the CPAP are common complaints.
- Wearing the masks induces feelings of claustrophobia
- in some individuals.
- It can be difficult to maintain, with masks, hoses, and filters that need to be replaced and cleaning the device.
- Insurance companies sometimes monitor usage and may revoke the machines if not used at least four hours per night and 70% of nights per month.
Failing to treat sleep apnea is not an option
Whether you choose CPAP or another method, treating your sleep apnea is vital. Living with untreated sleep apnea means the disorder will get worse. And untreated sleep apnea magnifies your risk of several severe, potentially life-threatening conditions, including high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.
At Glen Park Dental, we offer treatment for sleep apnea that does not involve CPAP use. Instead, we prefer to use oral appliance therapy. This entails providing the patient with a customized mouthpiece designed to make a snug, comfortable fit in the mouth. When worn, this oral appliance guides the lower jaw forward, helping to maintain an open airway all night long and prevent the blockages that lead to sleep apnea attacks and snoring.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in Oakland
We all deserve a good night’s sleep. You can find lasting relief for your sleep apnea without needing to rely on a CPAP machine. If you have any questions about sleep apnea or would like to learn more about how our sleep apnea dentists can help treat this disorder, schedule a consultation today by calling (415) 585-1500.
Glen Park Dental is proud to provide sleep apnea treatment for our patients in Marin, Oakland, and San Francisco, California.
