For many years, CPAP machines have been the go-to device for people who are diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, even though 34.1% of people do not adhere or comply to the usage instructions for one reason or another. If you've been using a CPAP machine — or trying to use one — and are not happy with the results, it may be time to learn about sleep apnea oral appliances and see if they would fit better in your life than a CPAP machine.

3 Reasons to Switch from CPAP to an Oral Appliance

Here are three reasons why it may be time to switch from a CPAP machine to an oral appliance. 

  1. Your spouse or partner needs to sleep, too. You may have been getting more sound sleep while wearing the CPAP machine than you did before, but that may not necessarily mean that your spouse or partner has as well. They may find it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep while the machine is in use. An oral appliance doesn't make sounds because it works by maintaining an open airway via positioning of the jaw and/or the tongue. 
  2. You may not sleep comfortably while using a CPAP. One of the main reasons people fail to adhere to the instructions is because falling asleep with something strapped to your face can be difficult enough as it is, but you also have a hose connected to the machine that you may subconsciously think about when you're trying to relax so you can fall asleep. 
  3. Your dog and/or cat attacks the hose and cords. CPAP machines can make noises throughout the night. Sometimes, pets react to the noise by pawing at the hoses and/or biting at the cords. This may explain the marks and dents on various accessories that are hooked up to your CPAP machine. An oral appliance won't scare or incite your pet into attacking it or playing with it.

Questions to Ask Before Switching

Oral appliances require fitting by a dentist and are adjusted over time, so you'll need a referral to a dentist who specializes in oral appliances. It's important to note that any dental work should be done prior to getting fitted for an oral appliance, particularly if you have any loose teeth that need to be pulled or repaired.

Therefore, it's a good idea to ask your specialist questions regarding your insurance coverage and whether the appliance will be covered by medical or dental insurance. That way, if you don't currently have dental insurance or what you do have is inadequate coverage, you can plan accordingly. 

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