5 Reasons to Consider an Alternative to CPAP

Being diagnosed with sleep apnea is more common than you might think. Between 2-5% of women and 3-7% of men are affected by this condition, totaling around 22 million Americans. Surprisingly, up to 80% of people with sleep apnea remain undiagnosed, meaning the true numbers may be even higher.

The most common treatment for sleep apnea is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, but it’s not your only option. One CPAP alternative, the Vivos System, offers a new and innovative approach to treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Here are five reasons why you might want to consider an alternative to CPAP:

1. CPAP Machines Are Loud

CPAP machines are known for their noise, which can be disruptive to both you and anyone sharing your bedroom. Sleep apnea already leads to poor sleep quality and fatigue, so it’s ironic that a treatment could add to sleep disturbances. If noise is a concern, looking into quieter treatment alternatives like the Vivos System might be the right move.

2. The Mask Can Be Uncomfortable

Many patients find wearing a CPAP mask uncomfortable, which can make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep. While adjusting the fit can help, it doesn’t always solve the discomfort. If you find the mask intrusive, an oral appliance like the Vivos System could offer relief without the hassle of wearing a mask.

3. Eye and Airway Irritation Is Common

CPAP masks often leak air, which can dry out your eyes and cause irritation. Additionally, the pressure from the CPAP machine can lead to dryness in your nose, throat, and mouth, and these symptoms may linger throughout the day. While there are ways to manage these side effects, many patients find them frustrating. A solution like the Vivos System avoids these issues by eliminating the need for a mask and machine.

4. CPAP Compliance Rates Are Low

Due to the discomfort and side effects, many patients struggle to use CPAP machines consistently. Inconsistent use means the symptoms of sleep apnea persist, putting your health at risk. If you’re not using your CPAP as recommended, an alternative like the Vivos System may be a more convenient and sustainable treatment option.

5. CPAP Doesn’t Cure Sleep Apnea

While CPAP machines help manage the symptoms of sleep apnea, they don’t address the root cause of the condition. You’ll need to use the CPAP machine every night for the rest of your life to control the symptoms. On the other hand, the Vivos System aims to treat the underlying cause of mild-to-moderate OSA, with many patients no longer needing treatment after completing the Vivos therapy.

A CPAP Alternative for Sleep Apnea

If you’re seeking an alternative to CPAP, the Vivos System could be the solution you’ve been looking for. This custom-made oral appliance works to correct the underlying causes of OSA and is a proven treatment for mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Many patients find that after completing treatment, no further interventions are needed.

Visit a Vivos Dentist in Oro Valley

At Smith Dentalworks, Dr. Atty Smith is a certified Vivos dentist located in Oro Valley, AZ. She works closely with Vivos experts to help treat patients with sleep apnea. If you’d like to learn more about this innovative CPAP alternative, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

To learn more about how we can help treat your Sleep Apnea without a CPAP machine, contact us today.

What is Dental Bone Loss and Why Does it Occur?

Dental bone loss can have serious consequences for your oral health and the appearance of your smile. Bone loss in the jaw is more common than you may expect and cannot be reversed without extensive bone grafting treatment. As a result, it’s important to understand why dental bone loss occurs and take the necessary steps to prevent it.

Effects of Bone Loss

Bone loss can cause your teeth to shift. This can result in a crooked smile and/or crowding. Nearby teeth may also become looser and eventually fall out. This leaves you vulnerable to infections and disease. Advanced bone loss can also change the shape of your face, and will often make you look older prematurely.

Cause – Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is the most common cause of dental bone loss. This condition is very prevalent, with a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showing that 47.2% of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease. Earlier stages, such as gingivitis, do not cause bone loss, but they can progress quickly if left untreated.

Preventing Bone Loss from Gum Disease

It’s important to schedule regular check-ups with your dentist. This way, you will know early on if you are showing signs of early gum disease and can get treatment right away. Depending on the stage of the disease, this may involve scaling and root planing to clean out the area under the gums.

Cause – Tooth Loss

When you lose a tooth or have the tooth extracted, the root is no longer placing pressure on your jaw when you eat. Over time, this results in resorption of the bone. After only the first year, patients typically lose 25% of the bone, and this only rises from there.

Preventing Bone Loss After Tooth Loss

A dental implant is a titanium post that acts as an artificial tooth root. The implant puts pressure on your jaw and prevents resorption of the bone. Using an implant topped with a crown is the best way to prevent bone loss after losing a tooth while also restoring the appearance of your smile.

If you have lost most of your teeth, implant dentures are a great option and protect the health of your jaw compared to traditional dentures, which can sometimes accelerate bone loss.

Restorative Dental Care in Oro Valley, AZ

At Smith Dentalworks, we can help restore the appearance of your smile after losing a tooth. We partner with a trusted oral surgeon with dental implant placement, which helps prevent bone loss while also giving you a beautiful new smile. We craft restorations that match the surrounding teeth, look great, and preserve your oral health.

To learn more about our restorative dental treatment options, contact us today.