Sleep Apnea 101
How Is Sleep Apnea Treated?
Struggling with poor sleep, loud snoring, or waking up gasping for air? If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you’re not alone—and you have options. Today’s treatment approaches can do more than improve your sleep; they can restore your energy, focus, and quality of life.
At North Florida Sleep Resources, we specialize in helping you find a treatment that fits your life—not the other way around.
Oral Appliance Therapy: Comfortable, Travel-Friendly Relief
Oral appliance therapy is a non-invasive solution that uses a custom-fitted device—similar to a mouthguard—to keep your airway open while you sleep. It works by gently repositioning the jaw or tongue to prevent airway collapse, making it an excellent choice for many patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
This treatment is FDA-approved, recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and particularly effective for those with mild to moderate sleep apnea—or those who can’t tolerate CPAP therapy.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy:
- Quiet and compact (no hoses or power cords)
- Comfortable for nightly use
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Ideal for travelers, light sleepers, and CPAP-intolerant patients
Every appliance we fit is custom-crafted to your mouth, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness.
CPAP Therapy: Effective, But Not for Everyone
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a well-established treatment that delivers a steady stream of air through a mask, keeping the airway open during sleep. While highly effective, especially for moderate to severe sleep apnea, it can be difficult to adapt to.
Common Concerns With CPAP:
- Mask discomfort or skin irritation
- Bulky equipment and tubing
- Noise disruptions during sleep
- Low long-term compliance
If you’ve tried CPAP and struggled with comfort or consistency, you’re not alone. Many patients find oral appliance therapy to be a practical and more manageable alternative.
Other Treatment Options
In addition to oral appliances and CPAP, other sleep apnea treatments may be considered based on your diagnosis, health, and preferences.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Weight loss, avoiding alcohol, and sleeping on your side can help manage mild cases.
- Surgical Options: Procedures to remove or reposition tissues may be considered when other therapies fail.
- Positional Therapy: Involves adjusting your sleep posture to reduce airway blockage, but results vary.
While these approaches can help, many patients find that oral appliance therapy strikes the right balance between simplicity, comfort, and effectiveness.
Comparing Your Treatment Options
Treatment Option | Ease of Use | Portability | Comfort | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|
Oral Appliance Therapy | ✔️ Very easy | ✔️ High | ✔️ Custom-fit comfort | Mild to moderate OSA, CPAP intolerance |
CPAP Therapy | ❌ Complex setup | ❌ Low | ❌ Mask discomfort | Moderate to severe OSA |
Surgery | ❌ Invasive | ✔️ N/A | ❌ Recovery required | When CPAP and OAT are not options |
Lifestyle Changes | ✔️ Natural | ✔️ High | ✔️ Non-invasive | Supportive role for mild cases |
*Our team will help guide you to the best fit based on your sleep study, medical history, and comfort preferences.*
You Deserve Restful Sleep—Let’s Find the Right Fit
If you’re struggling with sleep apnea or CPAP therapy hasn’t worked for you, oral appliance therapy may offer the simplicity and relief you need. At North Florida Sleep Resources, we’re here to help you breathe easier and sleep better—night after night.
Do You Have Sleep Apnea?
Contact us for an alternative treatment to CPAP machines.
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Location
1700 Eagle Harbor Pkwy, Suite 7
Fleming Island, FL 32003
Hours
Monday 9am- 4pm
Tuesday 9am- 4pm
Wednesday 10am - 5pm
Thursday 9am- 4pm
Friday By Appointment
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed