Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Therapy: An Alternative to CPAP

If you’ve been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you already know how disruptive and dangerous it can be. Interrupted sleep, loud snoring, daytime fatigue, and long-term health risks like high blood pressure and heart disease are all common consequences. While CPAP therapy is the most well-known treatment, many patients find it uncomfortable, noisy, or difficult to use consistently.

At Juban Cowen Dental Care in Baton Rouge, we offer a highly effective alternative: oral appliance therapy. For many patients, this simple, non-invasive solution can help manage sleep apnea without the hassle of a CPAP machine.

What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy involves wearing a custom-fitted dental device during sleep. This small appliance works by gently repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open throughout the night, preventing the collapse that causes breathing interruptions.

The appliances used are similar to a sports mouthguard or orthodontic retainer, but specifically designed for patients with OSA or chronic snoring.

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy vs. CPAP

While CPAP machines deliver continuous air pressure to keep airways open, they can be bulky, noisy, and uncomfortable. Many patients struggle with:

• Dry mouth or nasal congestion
• Skin irritation from the mask
• Difficulty sleeping due to the sound or sensation
• Inconvenience while traveling

Oral appliance therapy offers a quiet, portable, and user-friendly alternative. Key advantages include:

• Comfort and ease of use – No tubes, wires, or masks
• Discreet and travel-friendly – Fits in a small case, perfect for travel
• Improved compliance – Studies show patients are more likely to stick with oral appliances
• No electricity required – Great for camping or power outages
• Less invasive – Non-surgical, non-mechanical, and easy to adjust

In fact, a study published in Chest found that while CPAP may be slightly more effective in reducing apnea events, oral appliance users were more likely to use their device consistently, resulting in similar long-term health outcomes.

Who Is a Candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy may be a good fit for:

• Patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
• Individuals who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy
• Frequent travelers or those with an active lifestyle
• People with primary snoring who don’t have full OSA

The first step is a sleep study and diagnosis, typically provided by a sleep physician. Once diagnosed, our dental team works closely with your physician to fit and customize an oral appliance tailored to your specific needs.

Why Choose Juban Cowen Dental Care?

At Juban Cowen Dental Care, we’re proud to offer comprehensive sleep apnea care right here in Baton Rouge. Our experienced team:

• Is trained in dental sleep medicine
• Uses advanced scanning technology for precise, custom fits
• Works with your sleep doctor to monitor effectiveness
• Helps file insurance when applicable—many plans cover oral appliance therapy

We take the time to walk you through every step of the process, ensuring comfort, fit, and results. And we’re always available to make adjustments as needed.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Sleep

If you’re struggling with CPAP or looking for a more manageable way to treat sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy may be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Located in Baton Rouge, LA, Juban Cowen Dental Care proudly serves patients throughout East Baton Rouge Parish and surrounding areas. Call us today or book a consultation online to see if you’re a candidate for oral appliance therapy—and finally get the rest you deserve.