Dental Sleep: When the CPAP Needs Help

If you’ve ever struggled with a CPAP machine, you’re not alone. For many people with sleep apnea, the idea of better rest sounds promising, but using the machine can feel like a challenge. The mask, the air pressure, and the noise can all become overwhelming. CPAP therapy works well for many people, but it’s not the right fit for everyone.

At Complete Dental Arts in Newnan, Georgia,  Charley Cheney, DMD, and the team can help you determine if an alternative might be better suited for you.

When that happens, dental sleep medicine can offer a different approach to treating sleep apnea. If CPAP is not providing the results you need, a custom oral sleep appliance may make all the difference.

What CPAP does

CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. It works by delivering a steady stream of air through a mask, keeping your airway open while you sleep. It helps prevent pauses in breathing and improves the quality of your rest.

CPAP is often the first line of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It can reduce snoring, boost oxygen levels, and help you wake up feeling more refreshed.

But here’s the issue. Some people can’t tolerate the machine. The mask might feel uncomfortable. The airflow may seem too strong. For others, the setup makes it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. In some cases, people stop using it altogether.

If you find yourself in that situation, there are other solutions to consider.

How a dental appliance works

Dental sleep medicine focuses on treating sleep apnea with custom oral appliances. These devices resemble mouthguards or retainers. They fit inside your mouth and help keep your airway open by gently moving your lower jaw forward.

The small adjustment can stop the tissues at the back of your throat from collapsing while you sleep. As a result, your breathing stays steady, and you sleep more peacefully.

Oral appliances are most effective for individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. They can also help patients with more severe cases if CPAP isn’t a good match.

Is an oral appliance right for you?

If you’ve tried CPAP but struggle to stick with it, consider consulting Dr. Cheney. You may need a new sleep study to confirm your diagnosis and determine if an oral appliance is suitable for you.

From there, Dr. Cheney will take detailed impressions of your teeth and jaw. These measurements help create a custom device that fits your mouth comfortably and securely. A good fit is essential for both comfort and effectiveness.

Once you have your device, it usually takes only a few nights to get used to wearing it. Many people find it easier than using a CPAP machine. There’s no mask, no hose, and no need to plug anything in.

Benefits beyond better sleep

Treating sleep apnea can significantly improve various aspects of your life. You may notice increased energy during the day, fewer headaches, improved focus, and a better mood. Your partner might also sleep better if your snoring goes away.

There are also long-term health benefits. Sleep apnea has been linked to serious conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Managing your sleep disorder can lower your risk and support your overall health.

When combination therapy helps

In some cases, combining CPAP and an oral appliance leads to better results. It is especially true for people with severe sleep apnea or those who still have symptoms with one treatment alone.

You have options

If CPAP is causing frustration or simply not working, you do not have to live with poor sleep. Dental sleep medicine offers a real and reliable solution. Many people find relief with a custom oral appliance that fits their lifestyle and helps them rest easier.

Call the office or schedule an online appointment today to ask about your options. Better sleep is possible, and it might be easier than you think.