Have you been diagnosed with snoring, or mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)? Are you dreading wearing a CPAP machine? Many adults in Phoenix that have this condition will suffer through it rather than giving in to using a CPAP.
Luckily, there is an alternative device that’s available to help with your condition.
What is a snoring appliance?
While there are different kinds of snoring appliances in Phoenix, the most common ones are made from acrylic. They look very similar to the mouth-guards that athletes wear.
There is a piece that fits over your top teeth, and another is worn over your bottom teeth. The two trays are connected on the sides via a strap that guides your bottom jaw forward. This position opens your airway, allows you to breath more easily and prevents snoring.
What Is A CPAP?
CPAP is an abbreviation that stands for continuous positive airway pressure. A CPAP machine is used by patients with OSA. It uses a hose and face mask, attached to the motor that releases pressured air into your nose and/or mouth. This method helps to open the obstructed airway, allowing you to breath more freely.
Pros and Cons of A Snoring Appliance
Snoring appliances in Phoenix have many benefits, such as:
- Being comfortable
- They’re quiet
- Portable for easy travel
- Require no electricity
- Easy to clean and care for
- Highly affordable
- Can prevent you from having surgery
On the other hand, there are some disadvantages to snoring appliances:
- Can become loose over time and not be as effective
- Straps need to be replaced frequently
- They can break
- Since they are small, they can get misplaced
- They must be cleaned or they will collect buildup
- Mouth appliances can only treat snoring, and certain types of sleep apnea
Pros and Cons of A CPAP Machine
The benefits of a CPAP machine are:
- They can be used to treat severe obstructive sleep apnea
- Give you the best quality air intake
- Won’t alter your bite as some snoring appliances can
- Devices are equipped with humidifiers, which keep your nasal cavities from drying out
- Keeps a record of your sleeping habits, which helps ensure that you’re getting the most out of your machine
Some disadvantages that you’ll find with CPAP machines are as follows:
- Requires you to see a sleep specialist frequently
- Are very expensive, especially if you don’t have medical insurance
- Can be inconvenient to travel with
- The mask can make you feel claustrophobic
- Embarrassing to wear
- Problems sleeping in different positions
Which Method Is Right for You?
If you prefer to have one device over the other, then let your sleep physician know. They can help you decide which is best. To come to the right choice, you may have to undergo a sleep study. The results will determine your level of obstructive sleep apnea and let us know which treatment you qualify for. Fortunately, some sleep studies can be completed in the convenience of your own home!
If a snoring appliance is what you need, then our Phoenix, AZ dentist can step in and fit you with one. To learn more about your choices, visit Central Valley Dentistry. Call us today to schedule a consultation!
