With summer right around the corner, more and more people will start vacationing. For patients with sleep apnea in State College, the idea of traveling can seem overwhelming because of their CPAP (continuous positive air pressure) machines: Do I lug it with me? Should I just settle for interrupted, uncomfortable sleep? Luckily, Dr. Donald M. Marks has good news for you! State College Dental Sleep Medicine offers you’re a much more convenient—and still effective—alternative to treating your sleeping disorder.
Further Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing stops and starts during sleep because the back of the throat collapses during sleep, blocking your airway. Most common symptoms include snoring , choking, or gasping for air during your precious sleep time. Lack of oxygen typically causes these concerns for patients:
- Poor sleeping patterns
- Daytime fatigue
- Cardiovascular issues
- Increased risk for diabetes
- Depression
- Obesity
- Increased risk for high blood pressure
- Increased risk of having a stroke
CPAP Intolerance
The most prescribed treatment for sleep apnea is the nightly use of a CPAP machine. CPAP machines include a mask that fits over the nose and mouth that provides constant airflow, keeping the airway open and the sleeper breathing throughout the night. Although this can be an effective way to treat sleep apnea, many patients become intolerant or believe them to be downright inconvenient and uncomfortable. Most effective CPAP machines are rather robust and noisy when it comes to packing light for a vacation, leading many patients to leave them behind at home. But Dr. Marks understands that many people need an easy, comfortable solution like an oral appliance in State College.
Solving Sleep Apnea Issues with an Oral Appliance
You don’t have to worry about wires, masks or machinery when you treat your sleep apnea with a custom oral appliance. It fits like your teeth like a mouth guard and holds the jaw forward to help keep your airway open. Much like a CPAP machine, your oral appliance must be fit just for you. We will use our resources and expertise in both sleep medicine and dentistry to create your custom oral appliance. Even if you don’t choose an oral appliance for your primary sleep apnea treatment at home, it’s a great way to travel safely and comfortably.
Getting Your Oral Appliance
Although they are not for everyone, the majority of patients prefer oral appliances to CPAP therapy—especially if you plan on taking a few trips while on summer vacation. Oral appliances are easy to travel with and can fit even in shirt pockets and purses. They can be worn while sleeping on a plane, or on a long shuttle ride to your hotel. They are easy to use and care for while traveling. Many patients who like their CPAP machines get oral appliances to travel with and often switch full time to appliances.
If you’re ready to get your oral appliance before your next vacation contact us to schedule an appointment to meet with Dr. Marks. We’d be happy to help you stay comfortable and well-rested during your much needed breaks!