Many snoring or sleep breathing disorder patients are treated with CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure).  When this type of treatment fails or UPPP (uvulopalatropharyngopalasty) surgery fails, a conservative airway appliance made by a dentist with special education in this area may be the answer.  This CPAP alternative appliance can be used in conjunction with CPAP, after UPPP surgery or as a singular treatment.  For patients who snore, snore with mild sleep apnea, have mild to moderate apnea, have apnea but cannot tolerate CPAP and refuse palatal surgery or have found both CPAP and surgery to be unacceptable, an airway oral appliance known as a CPAP alternative appliance is often a conservative and successful treatment.

Today, with dentistry’s new knowledge and diagnostic skills, they can provide a CPAP alternative appliance for the snoring or sleep apnea patient.  Dentists, pulmonologists and other sleep doctors bring effective team management to the patient to minimize or correct the problem. Together they discuss the CPAP alternative appliance.

Along with the sleep dentists’ exam, the patient is referred to a sleep specialist for a complete medical assessment when the dentist suspects a disorder exists.  The sleep dentist will:

• complete a medical and dental history
• examine intra-oral habits
• check gag reflex
• make a cast or model of the teeth
• do a TMJ disorder and occlusal exam
• take special x-rays to see if patient is a good candidate for a CPAP alternative appliance such as a sleep appliance
• have patient fill out a sleepiness scale questionnaire

With a CPAP alternative appliance, patients find it keeps the airway from collapsing by creating extra airway space.