If you have either a BiPAP or CPAP machine from manufacturer Philips Respironics, it’s likely that your device had to be recalled. This recall occurred due to a type of foam made with the device that can degrade over time and release carcinogens that could be inhaled by the user. As a result, doctors are recommending patients to consider an alternative treatment to alleviate their symptoms in the meantime, including oral appliance therapy. To learn more about this treatment approach, keep reading!
Why Should You Act Quickly?
Doctors do not recommend abruptly stopping treatment for sleep apnea as it can result in serious consequences both in the short- and long-term. This includes poor sleep quality, chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and issues related to your heart and immune system (long-term).
While you could search for a CPAP from another manufacturer, this is not always feasible considering the costs associated with these devices. With the help of an oral appliance, you can not only have some level of treatment, but maybe even find a new and more effective approach to managing your symptoms.
What is Oral Appliance Therapy?
An oral appliance is a custom-made device that looks similar to a mouthguard. Essentially, oral appliances are designed to help open the airway to allow proper oxygen flow as you sleep. Not only does this ensure you can breathe easy throughout the night, but you’re less likely to snore or wake up in the middle of the night as a result of apneas.
While there are many brands of oral appliance out there, it’s best to speak with a dentist or other professional who can provide guidance in finding one that’s right for you.
Is an Oral Appliance Right for Me?
For the most part, those with mild to moderate levels of sleep apnea are more likely to experience positive results using an oral appliance. However, even if you do have severe sleep apnea symptoms, you can still use the appliance in tandem with a CPAP should you decide to purchase a new one in the future. When you do, you can lower the settings of the machine to make using it a bit easier.
With that said, there are many benefits of using an oral appliance compared to a CPAP machine. For example, oral appliances are much more portable, making it easier to manage sleep apnea when traveling without having to carry a large appliance with you. They are also ideal for those who struggle to use a CPAP and want to find a more comfortable alternative, especially if their symptoms are mild.
Recalls are never easy, but there are options available to you in the meantime. Learn more about oral appliance therapy by getting in touch with a dentist today!
About Lake Nona Dental Group
The many dentists of Lake Nona Dental Group bring decades of combined experience in many facets of dentistry, including custom oral appliances designed to manage sleep apnea symptoms. Along with this service, they provide expansion appliances to address the cause of sleep apnea and at-home sleep testing to aid in diagnosis. To schedule an appointment, you can contact the team through their website.
