Advantages of oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea affects an estimated 18 million people – that’s 1 in 15 adults in the United States. Unfortunately, many people with the condition go undiagnosed or avoid treatment because they do not want to use a cumbersome CPAP machine. At TMJ & Sleep Therapy of Utah, we provide Payson, Utah area patients an effective dental alternative so that they can reclaim their sleep quality and well-being: oral appliance therapy. 

Oral appliance therapy advantages

For many decades, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines were the mainstay in sleep apnea treatment. These machines deliver a stream of oxygenated air through a tube connected to a face mask, which you wear while you sleep. While CPAP machines effectively maintain oxygen flow throughout the night, they are bulky, uncomfortable, loud, and require a continuous power source. The end result is that about one-third to one-half of patients who try CPAP ultimately give it up. 

On the other hand, oral appliances for sleep apnea resolve many of the issues that CPAP machines present. These custom-made devices are designed to reposition the tissues that block your airway, restoring airflow and your ability to sleep soundly. Oral appliances for sleep apnea are:

• Quiet (your bed partner will thank you!)
• Small and portable
• Easy to take care of
• Convenient, requiring no power source, tubes, or maintenance
• Comfortable and easy to wear, with no face masks involved
• Effective
• Approved by the FDA for mild to moderate sleep apnea

A good night’s sleep is possible

Left untreated, sleep apnea does more than just make you tired and run-down. It is associated with several serious—and potentially deadly—health conditions such as heart disease, strokes, diabetes, obesity, mood disorders, and cognitive impairment. If you are one of the millions suffering from sleep apnea, it is important to seek an effective treatment option for your health and wellness.

At TMJ & Sleep Therapy of Utah, we provide customized solutions designed around your specific needs and work in partnership with you to ensure that you have long-term success. To schedule a sleep apnea consultation with Dr. Cheyn Gunnerson, call our Payson, UT office today at (801) 877-1126 or book your appointment online!

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