CPAP Alternatives in Syracuse, NY
If you struggle with sleep apnea and want a compatible alternative to CPAP machines, explore dental CPAP alternatives. In Syracuse, NY, Dr. Inderpreet Atwal at Atwal Sleep & Wellness Center offers oral appliances--comfortable, portable and effective ways to sleep better and to improve overall health.
What is Sleep Apnea?
The American Sleep Apnea Association states that 22 million Americans have a sleep disorder called Obstructive Sleep Apnea, or OSA. As a person sleeps, the tongue and other oral tissues relax and block the airway. This obstruction causes snoring, gasping for air, periods of breathing cessation (apnea) and a host of systemic health effects such as:
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Hypertension
- Type-2 diabetes
- Memory and concentration problems
- Daytime fatigue and drowsiness
Why do Sleep Doctors Recommend CPAP?
CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. As it relates to sleep apnea treatment, CPAP is a bedside apparatus which delivers air through a nasal/facial mask. The goal of CPAP treatment is opening the airway, and keeping it open, as a person sleeps.
Problems Patients Experience With CPAP
CPAP machines work well to control sleep apnea symptoms. However, many patients struggle with treatment compliance because these machines can be:
- Noisy for both the patient and other household members, especially the spouse
- Uncomfortable because of the facial/nasal mask
- A reservoir for bacteria and mold and therefore, require meticulous and consistent cleaning
- Unsuitable for travelers
- Claustrophobic
Dental CPAP Alternatives
At Atwal Sleep & Wellness Center in Syracuse, NY, your sleep apnea dentist can help you manage your sleep apnea symptoms and reduce, or completely eliminate, your need for nightly CPAP. Oral appliance therapy offers better convenience, comfort, ease of maintenance and best of all control of your OSA.
Atwal Sleep & Wellness Center delivers a wide range of oral appliance options. Also called Mandibular Advancement Devices, or MADS, these acrylic guards fit comfortably over the top and bottom teeth. They gently re-position the lower jaw into a more forward position. This position opens the airway and sleep apnea ceases or is less severe.
To determine what device is best for you, Dr. Atwal will review your symptoms and help you choose the device best for your needs. These appliances are custom-fit and adjustable to optimize comfort and therapeutic effect.
Find Out More
For more information about sleep apnea and what an oral appliance can do for you, please contact Atwal Sleep & Wellness Center for more information. Come in for a consultation and get all your questions answered.