Skip the CPAP for a Simpler Solution

People who have sleep apnea stop breathing when they fall asleep. Your brain responds by waking you, although you may not remember it. These stoppages can occur hundreds of times every night. They prevent you from reaching the stages of deep sleep. These stoppages put stress on your body, which may explain why people with this condition have an increased risk of depression, diabetes, heart disease, and dementia.

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of this sleep disorder. It occurs because your muscles relax when you fall asleep. Soft tissue can then block your airway. To treat this problem, you must keep the airway open. A continuous positive airway (CPAP) machine does this by pushing air into your mouth or nose to keep the airway open. Many people find the CPAP troublesome to use because they don’t like wearing a mask, the sensation of the air pushing into their mouth or nose, or the sound of the machine.

As an alternative, Dr. Weddell can design a special oral appliance for you. The appliance:

  • Works by shifting the resting position of your lower jaw to keep your airway open
  • Allows you to remain asleep long enough to enjoy deep, rejuvenating rest
  • Doesn’t require electricity, batteries, or any other power source
  • Is much easier to transport and use while traveling than a CPAP
  • Fits comfortably in your mouth, much like a sports mouthguard
  • Is less distracting for both you and your bed partner

If you suspect that you may have this condition, set up a consultation at Weddell Dental as soon as you are able. We can conduct an assessment and, if needed, we can help you get started on treating your condition. Don’t wait to treat your sleep apnea in Bloomington, MN!

Call 952-679-1365 or schedule online to make your appointment. Remember to schedule your regular exams, too.