Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment Options

There are several effective treatment options for managing Obstructive Sleep Apnea, tailored to the severity of the condition and individual needs:

CPAP is the most common treatment for moderate to severe OSA. A CPAP machine delivers a steady stream of air through a mask worn during sleep, keeping the airway open and preventing blockages. While highly effective, some patients find the device uncomfortable or difficult to use.

Oral appliances are custom-made devices worn in the mouth during sleep to reposition the lower jaw or tongue, helping keep the airway open. This is a more comfortable and convenient option for many patients, especially those with mild to moderate OSA or those who cannot tolerate CPAP. Oral appliance therapy is proven effective and easy to use, often preferred by patients due to its simplicity and portability.

Certain lifestyle adjustments can help reduce the severity of OSA:

• Weight loss: Reducing excess weight can alleviate pressure on the airway.
• Sleep position changes: Sleeping on your side can prevent airway collapse.
• Avoiding alcohol and sedatives: These relax the muscles in the throat, increasing the likelihood of airway obstruction.
• Quitting smoking: Smoking can inflame and narrow the airway.

In cases where other treatments are ineffective, surgical procedures may be recommended. These can include:

• Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): Removing excess tissue from the throat to widen the airway.
• Genioglossus advancement: Repositioning the tongue muscle attachment to prevent airway collapse.
• Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA): Repositioning the jawbones to enlarge the airway.

Positional therapy involves encouraging individuals to sleep in positions that reduce airway obstruction, often using devices that prevent back sleeping.
 

• People with Primary Snoring
• People with mild to moderate apnea or people with severe apnea who are unable to tolerate or refuse to try CPAP.
• People who cannot tolerate the high pressure of CPAP
• People with healthy disease free teeth
• People who want to travel without having to bring a CPAP machine

• Appliances are easy to wear and comfortable to use
• Appliances are small, noiseless and barely noticeable.
• Appliances are convenient to travel with
• Appliances don’t bother bed partners
• Appliances reduce self-consciousness that many report feeling with CPAP use.
• Appliances are not permanent, use can be discontinued anytime
• Appliances are typically covered by medical insurance and medicare