CPAP Alternatives and Dental Devices

Our Ventura Dentist Can Help Find the Fit for You

Some people who have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea—a condition that causes the tissues in your throat to block your airway while you sleep—cannot tolerate the CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device enough to get a good night’s sleep. Complaints of discomfort, dry mouth, nasal congestion, skin irritation, and nightmares due to the CPAP have many people searching for alternative solutions. At Mark Weitzman D.D.S., we can provide information and suggestions about which is the best solution for you.

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About Alternative Dental Devices

When it comes to handling obstructive sleep apnea, there are two other main dental devices available to you: the mandibular advancement device and Tongue retaining device. These two devices are FDA approved and widely accepted by sleepers everywhere.

Even though these devices are used for the same thing, they differ immensely:

  • The mandibular advancement device (MAD) is a mouth guard that resembles one that is used in sports for protection. The MAD pushes the jaw forward, holding the collapsible part of the throat open so you can breathe easily as you sleep.
  • The tongue retaining device (TRD) holds the tongue forward like the MAD does, but instead of controlling the jaw, it directly holds the tongue forward, as if in a splint. The TRD takes a longer time to get used to and is often considered less comfortable than the MAD.

Dental devices have shown to control sleep apnea as a long term solution, unlike some standard surgical procedures, like uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP).

Talk to Us about Getting a Fitted Today

If you have decided that a CPAP device is not right for you, our Ventura dentist at Mark Weitzman D.D.S. can help. We can discuss with you what the benefits of each device are and determine which would be the best fit for you. If you are fitted with a dental device, we suggest having a checkup early on to see if the device is working, followed by further appointments for adjustments and replacements. If you notice that your device is affecting your bite, we can assist with making the modifications to fix the problem. Call today to schedule an appointment!

If you are in need of a Ventura dentist to help you get a good night’s sleep with dental devices,call our office today!

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