Sleep Apnea Symptoms may Include:

  • Irregular heart beat
  • High blood pressure
  • Impotence
  • Heartburn
  • Morning headaches
  • Dry mouth
  • Acid reflux
  • Lack of concentration
  • Depression
  • Irritability
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Memory problems
  • Falling asleep at inappropriate times
  • Have you had strokes or heart attacks?

CPAP Machine

What is a CPAP machine?

CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure machine. The device delivers a continuous stream air through a facemask to keep an obstructive sleep apnea patient's oral soft tissues from blocking airflow during sleep. A CPAP unit consists of a main box, a tube, and a facemask. The mask should be worn and the unit kept on during an entire sleep session. For many years, CPAP has been the gold standard in obstructive sleep apnea treatment. That is now changing as oral appliance therapy is considered as effective as CPAP for mild to moderate sleep apnea.

Why don't all people with sleep disorders use CPAP?

About half of sleep apnea sufferers cannot tolerate wearing a CPAP. Some have problems with the fit of the mask, while others are irritated by the level of air pressure, the facemask straps, or the noise. Some people experience claustrophobia while wearing a CPAP. Because the unit requires electricity, a CPAP can be a hassle for someone who enjoys camping. And, in many cases, a sleep apnea patient's sleeping partner can't rest because of the noise CPAP emits.

Fortunately, modern sleep medicine offers alternatives to CPAP.

Schedule a Consultation

In his Livonia dental office, Dr. Stewart offers sleep apnea and snoring treatment with oral appliance therapy. This non-invasive treatment option helps people overcome sleep apnea and snoring so that they can enjoy restful nights and alert, focused days.