Looking for an Alternative to CPAP? Consider Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that affects breathing throughout the night, often without the person realizing it. Repeated pauses in breathing reduce oxygen levels, disrupt sleep cycles, and place significant strain on the heart and brain. While CPAP therapy is commonly prescribed, many patients struggle with the discomfort, noise, and inconvenience of wearing a mask every night. For those individuals, oral appliance therapy offers an effective and far more comfortable alternative.

At Watson Family Dental, patients from Watson, Central, and Durham Springs are discovering how custom oral appliances can help manage sleep apnea while fitting naturally into daily life.

How Common Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is more widespread than many people realize. According to national health data, over 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, and an estimated 80% of moderate to severe cases remain undiagnosed. Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and increased accident risk due to daytime fatigue.

Because symptoms often occur during sleep, many people live with the condition for years before seeking help.

Why CPAP Isn’t Right for Everyone

CPAP machines work by delivering continuous air pressure to keep the airway open. While effective, many patients find CPAP difficult to tolerate long-term. Common complaints include mask discomfort, skin irritation, dry mouth, claustrophobia, and difficulty traveling with the device.

Studies show that up to 50% of CPAP users struggle with consistent compliance, reducing the effectiveness of treatment. This is where oral appliance therapy can make a meaningful difference.

What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy (OAT) uses a custom-fitted dental device worn during sleep. The appliance gently repositions the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open, preventing collapse that causes breathing interruptions.

These appliances are:

• Small and discreet
• Quiet and easy to use
• Comfortable for nightly wear
• Portable and travel-friendly

For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, OAT has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms and improve sleep quality.

Health Benefits of Treating Sleep Apnea

Effective treatment does more than stop snoring. Patients using oral appliance therapy often experience:

• Improved sleep quality
• Reduced daytime fatigue
• Better focus and mood
• Lower blood pressure in some cases

Research indicates that properly fitted oral appliances can reduce apnea events by 50% or more in appropriate candidates, significantly lowering health risks.

A Personalized Dental Approach to Sleep Health

Watson Family Dental combines dental expertise with a comprehensive understanding of sleep health. Each oral appliance is custom-designed to ensure proper fit, comfort, and effectiveness. Treatment is never one-size-fits-all.

Dr. Jared Eades leads the practice with a patient-centered philosophy. Dr. Eades believes exceptional care starts with listening. Treatment plans are developed around each patient’s comfort, lifestyle, and budget, ensuring solutions that are realistic and sustainable.

Why Local Families Choose Watson Family Dental

Patients throughout Watson, Central, and Durham Springs trust Watson Family Dental for sleep apnea treatment because of the personalized attention and long-term support provided. Follow-up care ensures the appliance continues to work effectively as needs change over time.

By offering a comfortable alternative to CPAP, the practice helps families achieve the restorative sleep essential for long-term health and happiness.

Is Oral Appliance Therapy Right for You?

Oral appliance therapy is not appropriate for every type of sleep apnea, but for many patients, it offers a highly effective and comfortable solution. A proper evaluation helps determine whether OAT is the right fit for your condition.

Start Your Journey Toward Better Sleep

If CPAP has been uncomfortable or difficult to maintain, you may not need to give up on treating sleep apnea. A custom oral appliance could provide the relief you need without the hassle.

Schedule a consultation with Watson Family Dental today to learn whether oral appliance therapy is right for you. Better sleep, improved health, and more energized days may be closer than you think.