If you have sleep apnea, then you will need to treat the problem, or you may be unable to get a good night's sleep. This can be quite troubling for some, and it can lead to a great deal of stress, anxiety, and fatigue. While CPAP machines are provided for the vast majority of patients, they are not tolerated by some. Keep reading to learn why CPAP may not be the best option and how your dentist can help.

Why Is CPAP Not Always A Good Choice?

While CPAP machine options have changed a great deal within the last few years, some people simply do not feel comfortable wearing any of the mask options. Since CPAP machines are meant to help individuals sleep through the night, their lack of comfort may continue to keep wearers from sleeping, which is not helpful. Also, some people cannot get used to the air pressure that is applied to the airway as well as the face. This pressure is most uncomfortable when breathing out and it can make some individuals feel as though they are suffocating. 

Also, for people who do not have severe sleep apnea, the CPAP machines may seem a bit aggressive, especially since the machines need to be used every night and basically forever. This type of commitment can be troublesome and may make some people shy away from the machines. 

If you think that a CPAP machine is not right for you, then you can try a bilevel positive pressure or an automatic positive airway pressure machine. However, these machines do not always address comfort issues or some of the other concerns you may have.

How Can A Dentist Help?

In some cases, especially when your specific physiology is the cause of the sleep apnea, a dental appliance can be created to treat your condition. There are several different appliances that can be constructed and given to you. One of the most common is called the mandibular advancement device. This device is a hard plastic mouthguard-stye device that pushes the lower jaw forward a small amount. This helps to keep the airway open all night. 

While the mouthguard types of appliances can be quite successful, then can alter the bite over time. Your dentist may provide you with a mouthpiece to wear in the morning that helps to force backward pressure on the jaw to help reposition it. 

Devices that place downward pressure on the tongue in the evening can be provided as well, and certain surgical operations can also be scheduled to assist with the issue. Speak with your dentist to hear about the various options that are available to you. To learn more about how a dentist can help treat your obstructive sleep apnea, check out websites like http://silverstonefamilydental.com.