Don’t give up on treatment. Let’s talk options.
CPAP is a highly effective treatment and remains the best choice for many people, especially those with severe sleep apnea. If you are struggling with it, an oral appliance may help, on its own or together with CPAP, depending on your diagnosis.
Common CPAP challenges
CPAP only works when it is used, and some people find it hard to get used to. Common challenges include:
- Mask discomfort or skin irritation
- Feeling claustrophobic
- Air leaks, dry mouth or dry nose
- Noise disturbing a bed partner
- Hoses that tangle when you move
- Difficulty traveling with the machine
Start with your CPAP provider. Many of these problems can be solved with a different mask, humidifier or pressure settings. If CPAP still is not working for you, talk with your physician and Dr. Lester about other options.
Where an oral appliance can fit in
Oral appliances and CPAP are not competitors. Each works best for different patients, and some patients benefit from both.
| Situation | Oral appliance | CPAP |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Holds the lower jaw slightly forward to keep the airway open | Gently pushes air through a mask to keep the airway open |
| Snoring without sleep apnea | Often a good fit | Not usually needed |
| Mild to moderate sleep apnea | Often a good fit | Also effective |
| Severe sleep apnea | Usually not enough on its own. May be used alongside CPAP in some cases | Usually the recommended treatment |
| Trouble tolerating CPAP | May be an option, depending on your diagnosis and your physician’s guidance | Mask and setting changes often help |
Not everyone is a candidate. Some patients cannot use an oral appliance because their sleep apnea is too severe, or because of their teeth or jaw. Dr. Lester will review your sleep study, examine your mouth and tell you honestly whether an appliance is right for you.
Talking with Dr. Lester about your options
If you already have a sleep apnea diagnosis, bring your most recent sleep study to your consultation. Dr. Lester will review it, examine your teeth and jaw, and discuss whether an oral appliance is likely to help, either on its own or together with CPAP. If a new test is needed, you can complete it at home through our Rest Assured home sleep testing service.
Please do not stop using a prescribed CPAP before talking with your physician. Untreated sleep apnea carries real health risks. Dr. Lester works alongside your physician so that any change in treatment is safe and right for you.