CPAP: The Former Gold Standard
For years, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) was considered the gold standard for treating sleep apnea. While CPAP is effective for many patients, approximately 50% of users find the mask, hose, and machine too uncomfortable to tolerate.
Common complaints about CPAP include:
- The mask is uncomfortable or restrictive.
- The machine is noisy and disrupts sleep.
- It’s difficult to sleep in your preferred position while wearing the mask.
- The continuous airflow can cause dryness or bloating.
- Many patients feel claustrophobic using the mask.
If you’ve tried CPAP and found it intolerable, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) provides a patient-friendly alternative, offering the same benefits as CPAP without the bulk or discomfort.
Snoring and Sleep Apnea Treatments
At Advanced Dental Sleep Treatment Center, we offer a range of non-invasive treatment options designed to improve sleep quality and reduce snoring. After conducting a thorough evaluation, our team will determine the type and severity of your sleep apnea and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral Appliance Therapy involves wearing a custom-fitted device during sleep to keep your airway open. These devices work by gently repositioning your jaw or tongue, preventing airway obstruction and allowing for uninterrupted breathing throughout the night.
Types of Oral Appliances
There are two main types of oral appliances we use to treat snoring and sleep apnea:
Mandibular Repositioning Devices (MRDs)
MRDs are similar to sports mouthguards and work by holding the lower jaw slightly forward. This creates more space in the back of the throat, allowing air to flow freely and eliminating snoring. MRDs are also suitable for patients without teeth (edentulous patients).
Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)
TRDs are soft, flexible devices that hold the tongue in a forward position, preventing it from falling back into the throat and blocking the airway. These appliances are particularly effective for patients whose snoring is caused by tongue obstruction.
“I can’t tolerate a cpap and Advanced Dental is a terrific solution. I have been a patient here for over 20 years. Always helpful and friendly. I have referred many of my family and friends.”
– C. WEIGHT
“I would highly recommend this office if you are having a lot of issues with your sleep patterns. Thank you to the staff at Advanced Sleep.”
– S. KLING
“Having struggled with sleep apnea for years, I finally decided to do something about it… ADSTC was awesome to work with and I highly recommend you reach out to them to help with alternatives to C-PAP.”
– K. BROWN
Why Choose Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral Appliance Therapy has gained popularity as a top choice for sleep apnea treatment due to its ease of use and effectiveness. Unlike CPAP, oral appliances are quiet, portable, and require no electricity.
Advantages of Oral Appliances Over CPAP:
- Comfortable: Easy to wear and less invasive than CPAP masks.
- Portable: Ideal for travel, as there’s no bulky equipment.
- Quiet: Eliminates the noise associated with CPAP machines.
- Easy Maintenance: Cleaning and storing an oral appliance is simple and convenient.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Many patients experience noticeable improvements within days of starting therapy.
For patients who struggle with CPAP compliance, oral appliances offer a practical and effective alternative.
The Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Delaying treatment for sleep apnea can have serious consequences for your health and well-being. Untreated sleep apnea is linked to a variety of health conditions, including:
- Hypertension
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Type II diabetes
- GERD (Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease)
- Weight gain
- Mood disorders, including anxiety and depression
- Daytime fatigue and decreased productivity
By addressing sleep apnea early, you can reduce these risks and enjoy better overall health.
What to Expect from Treatment
At Advanced Dental Sleep Treatment Center, we believe that the best sleep apnea treatment is the one you’ll use consistently. During your consultation, we’ll take the time to understand your symptoms, perform a comprehensive evaluation, and guide you through your treatment options.
Personalized Care Every Step of the Way
- Initial Consultation: We’ll discuss your symptoms, review any previous sleep studies, and determine the best diagnostic approach.
- Custom Appliance Design: Using advanced technology, we’ll create a device tailored to your specific anatomy and sleep needs.
- Follow-Up and Adjustments: After beginning treatment, we’ll schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Contact Our Omaha Sleep Dentists
If you’re ready to improve your sleep and your health, our team is here to help. Contact Dr. Melissa Sheets or Dr. Tracy Brigden at Advanced Dental Sleep Treatment Center to learn more about your treatment options.
Call us today at (402) 493-4175 to schedule your consultation, or fill out our online contact form to request more information. One of our team members will assist you with scheduling, insurance questions, and financing options.
Restful, rejuvenating sleep is within reach—let us help you take the first step toward a healthier, more energized life.
