11
Aug
Should I Opt For Oral Appliance Therapy Over CPAPs? 5 Benefits to Consider
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a severe sleep disorder that can have far-reaching consequences on your health and quality of life. At A Brush Above Family Dentistry, we love your sleep and health as much as you do. Our dentists offer oral appliance therapy as a simple, effective solution for obstructive sleep apnea. Schedule an appointment with our office in Chicago, Illinois, and reclaim your quality of life.
What is CPAP therapy?
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a device that helps OSA patients breathe more easily during sleep. The machine increases the air pressure in the upper airway to keep it open throughout the night, helping you breathe without interruptions.
While CPAPs are effective, they do not work for everyone. Some individuals find it difficult to adapt to the mask, tubing, noise, or overall experience, leading them to discontinue treatment. If you are struggling with CPAP or simply looking for a more comfortable option, we are pleased to offer oral appliance therapy, a convenient and effective alternative.
The benefits of oral appliance therapy (OAT)
Oral appliance therapy involves a personalized device that looks like a mouthguard or orthodontic retainer. When worn at night, the device gently shifts the lower jaw and tongue to help stop the airway from collapsing. Your Chicago sleep apnea dentist recommends oral appliances for patients with mild to moderate OSA and those who can’t tolerate CPAPs.
Here are the benefits of customized oral appliances.
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1. Greater comfort
One of the most compelling benefits of oral appliances is their comfort. While CPAP machines are highly effective, some patients struggle sleeping with a mask covering their nose or face. Others experience skin irritation, pressure marks, dry mouth, or feelings of claustrophobia.
A customized oral appliance offers a more comfortable option. Simply wear the retainer-like device in your mouth and sleep. You don’t need to sleep with a mask strapped to your head. Since customized oral appliances are designed for your unique smile, they are easier to adapt to and wear consistently throughout the night.
2. Portability
Traveling with a CPAP machine can be challenging. Patients often need to pack equipment, ensure access to power outlets, and navigate airport security with additional medical devices. The small, compact design of a sleep apnea oral device allows it to fit in your pocket or travel bag. You can easily carry the appliance wherever you go, whether traveling for work or on vacation.
3. Noiseless treatment
CPAP machines have become much quieter over the years, but they still produce some operational noise. Oral appliances are completely silent. There are no motors, airflow sounds, or machine settings to manage. Many patients and their bed partners appreciate the simplicity and quiet nature of oral appliance therapy.
4. Discreet treatment
A nightguard is discreet and nearly invisible when worn. Simply fit it in your mouth, and no one needs to know you are undergoing sleep apnea treatment.
5. Improved treatment compliance
The most effective sleep apnea treatment is the one you actually use. Due to the comfort, convenience, discretion, and other benefits, many patients consistently wear their oral appliances to help manage sleep apnea. For patients who have struggled to adapt to CPAP, oral appliance therapy may offer a realistic path toward long-term treatment success.
Who offers sleep apnea treatment in Chicago, IL?
Sleep apnea isn’t just about snoring—it’s about your sleep, health, and quality of life. If you struggle with morning headaches, sleepiness, or daytime fatigue, the culprit could be sleep apnea, and you shouldn’t wait any longer. At A Brush Above Family Dentistry, we can help you regain your sleep and health. Dial (773) 840-0378 and schedule your appointment today.Â
Dr. Marcella Guzman
Dr. Marcella Guzman is an admired dental professional renowned for her unwavering commitment to excellence in patient care, with a rich background in biology and sociology. Since graduating from The University of Illinois Dental School in 1994, she has enhanced her skills through extensive continuing education, specializing in cutting-edge technologies such as Cerec 3-D, sleep apnea, Invisalign, and laser dentistry. Her dedication to staying up-to-date on the latest advancements ensures that her patients receive top-notch care. A distinguished member of The American Dental Association and Chicago Dental Society, Dr. Guzman's wealth of experience, coupled with her compassionate approach, establishes her as a trusted specialist in the field of dentistry.
Dr. Phillip Fidel
Philip Fidel, DDS, graduated from the University of California Davis in 1981 and attended Northwestern Dental School in Chicago. He has been providing exceptional dental care via private practice in Chicago ever since. Dr. Fidel believes learning is a never-ending process and has completed advanced training in CEREC 3-D technology, laser, and implant dentistry.
Dr. Rosa Sinno
Rosa Sinno, DDS, graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign and received her dental degree from the University of Illinois Dental School in 2006. After five years of practicing in Chicago, she moved to New York City, where she continued to treat patients and ran a successful office in Midtown Manhattan. She also followed a year-long intensive training program at the renowned Rosenthal Institute for Aesthetic Dentistry at NYU College of Dentistry. She has also completed training in Invisalign, CEREC 3-D technology, and laser dentistry. In 2017, Dr. Sinno moved back to her hometown of Chicago.
Dr. Irbad Chowdhury
Irbad Chowdhury, DMD, DABOI, AFAAID, FAGD, FICD, FICOI, received his dental degree and completed his residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry and Implant Fellowship at the Southern Illinois University (SIU) School of Dental Medicine. ​​He is board-certified in dental implants and is also an advanced dentistry expert. After completing his residency and private practice in Saint Louis, MO, Dr. Chowdhury moved to Chicago.
A former faculty and clinical professor at SIU School of Dental Medicine, he now serves as a clinical instructor/professor at Midwestern University Dental School.
Dr. Shoshana Center
Shoshana Center, DMD, is a highly skilled dentist dedicated to providing exceptional dental care focusing on patient comfort and education. Since graduating from Southern Illinois School of Dental Medicine in 2022, she has specialized in Invisalign and CEREC 3-D technology for same-day crowns and onlays. Dr. Center is passionate about esthetic dentistry, including implant restoration, and is committed to staying at the forefront of dental advancements through continuous education. As a member of the American Dental Association and Illinois State Dental Society, she is trusted for her expertise and dedication to clinical excellence.
All these providers aim to deliver exceptional patient care focused on health, function, comfort, and aesthetic beauty. They take pride in listening to patients’ concerns and tailoring each visit to their individual needs. Full patient-oriented dental care backed by patient-empowered decisions is what they intend to deliver in providing patients with the ultimate dental experience.