Why people don’t like CPAP devices?

                                

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a standard treatment for people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).  It includes a small machine that supplies a constant and steady air pressure, a hose, and a mask or nose piece. 

These are some of the common problems with CPAP therapy:

1.     Patient compliance

·       Compliance has been an issue with CPAP therapy. Inconsistent use of the device undermines the effectiveness of CPAP therapy

·       Travelers find it inconvenient to bring the mask, tubing and a machine during their travel

·       Uncomfortable and difficult to get used to

2.     Wrong size or style CPAP mask

·       Sizes-too large a mask leads to leaking air, too small/tight a mask leads to pressure sores and discomfort

·       Styles

-full face masks cover the mouth and nose, with straps that stretch across the forehead and cheeks.  These masks may cause some people to feel claustrophobic.

-other masks have nasal pillows that fit under the nose and strap. They don’t work well if patients move/toss around a lot or sleep on the side.

3.     Trouble getting used to wearing the CPAP device

·       Some patients have claustrophobic and anxiety issues

-feeling “trapped” inside the full-faced mask may cause some patients to feel claustrophobic

-wear the mask all night causes anxiety for some patients

·       takes time and lots of practice (being consistent) to get used to wearing the CPAP masks

4.     Dry, stuffy nose or dry mouth

·       Requires proper adjustment of the humidifier setting of the CPAP device

·       Leaky mask causes dry nose

·       Mouth breather causes dry mouth; CPAP treatment is less effective

5.      Skin irritation or pressure sores

·       Skin irritation or pressure sore is caused by ill-fitting mask

6.     Difficulty falling asleep

·       Getting used to wearing the mask

·       Noisy machine

·       Anxiety, feeling trapped inside the mask

7.     Unintentionally removing the CPAP during the night

·       Ill-fitting mask and it falls off

·       Moving, tossing and turning during sleep could pull the mask off

8.     Can’t adjust to the noise

·       Running motor/machine

If you have experienced any of the common problems with CPAP therapy, talk to your physician and your dentist about other possible treatment options.  Glendoradentist, Dr. Anna Lee, can help you.  Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Anna Lee at 626-335-5114 or email drannalee1@gmail.com

Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure (CPAP)

While a c-pap machine is an option to treatment of sleep apnea. There is a better way. Providing an oral dental device can give you your life back. It does not require batteries, it is not bulky and it does not make any noise when you go to sleep. 

CPAP machines are used with a variety of breathing masks. They are most widely used treatment for moderate and severe OSA.CPAP treatment may cause side effects: dry or stuffy nose, irritated skin on the face, dry mouth, and headaches.  If the CPAP device is not adjusted properly, patients may get stomach bloating and discomfort while wearing the mask.

                                  

                Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT)

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has approved oral appliance therapy (OAT) as a first line treatment for patients diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA.  The AASM also recommends oral appliance therapy for patients with severe OSA, who are unable to tolerate or cannot wear CPAP devices.  Another option for people with severe OSA is combination therapy (wearing CPAP and an oral appliance together) to help reduce the pressure on a CPAP machine, making it more comfortable to use.

For more information on a dental device, contact Dr. Lee and her team today!

Advantages of Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT):

·      

       Oral Appliance Therapy is an effective, non-invasive treatment that fits easily into your lifestyle.  Patients like     

   

          Oral Appliance Therapy because it is:

-comfortable, easy to wear,

-quiet

-portable, convenient for travel

-easy to care for

Oral Appliance Therapy my cause side effects:  soreness of the mouth, saliva build-up, nausea, and damage or permanent change in position of the jaw, teeth and mouth.

Glendora dentist, Dr. Anna Lee, is a trained dentist in sleep apnea who can assist you with treatment.  Dr. Anna Lee conducts a full evaluation of your teeth, mouth and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to ensure that your teeth and jaw structure are healthy enough to wear an oral appliance.  Following the examination, you will have models of your teeth made and a follow-up appointment is scheduled to fit your custom oral appliance.  Please visit our sleep website at www.glendorasleep.com