​                                 Why people don’t like CPAP devices?     5-30-2017
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a standard treatment for people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).  It includes a small machine that supplies a constant and steady air pressure, a hose, and a mask or nose piece.  
These are some of the common problems with CPAP therapy:
1.    Patient compliance
•    Compliance has been an issue with CPAP therapy. Inconsistent use of the device undermines the effectiveness of CPAP therapy
•    Travelers find it inconvenient to bring the mask, tubing and a machine during their travel
•    Uncomfortable and difficult to get used to
2.    Wrong size or style CPAP mask
•    Sizes-too large a mask leads to leaking air, too small/tight a mask leads to pressure sores and discomfort
•    Styles
-full face masks cover the mouth and nose, with straps that stretch across the forehead and cheeks.  These masks may cause some people to feel claustrophobic.
-other masks have nasal pillows that fit under the nose and strap. They don’t work well if patients move/toss around a lot or sleep on the side.
3.    Trouble getting used to wearing the CPAP device
•    Some patients have claustrophobic and anxiety issues
-feeling “trapped” inside the full-faced mask may cause some patients to feel claustrophobic
-wear the mask all night causes anxiety for some patients
•    takes time and lots of practice (being consistent) to get used to wearing the CPAP masks
4.    Dry, stuffy nose or dry mouth
•    Requires proper adjustment of the humidifier setting of the CPAP device 
•    Leaky mask causes dry nose
•    Mouth breather causes dry mouth; CPAP treatment is less effective
5.     Skin irritation or pressure sores
•    Skin irritation or pressure sore is caused by ill-fitting mask
6.    Difficulty falling asleep
•    Getting used to wearing the mask
•    Noisy machine
•    Anxiety, feeling trapped inside the mask
7.    Unintentionally removing the CPAP during the night
•    Ill-fitting mask and it falls off
•    Moving, tossing and turning during sleep could pull the mask off
8.    Can’t adjust to the noise
•    Running motor/machine 
If you have experienced any of the common problems with CPAP therapy, talk to your physician and your dentist about other possible treatment options.  Glendora dentist, Dr. Anna Lee, can help you.  Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Anna Lee at 626-335-5114 or email [email protected]

Taking a vacation this summer with Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) 
Summer is just right around the corner.  Many Americans will be on family vacations, business trips and leisure travel.  For people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), travel can be a hassle of bringing along the continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) device that includes a face mask, tubing and a constantly running motor.  Is there an alternative device for treating patients with obstructive sleep apnea besides CPAP?  Fortunately, the answer is yes.  Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is an effective treatment option for treating patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is a custom fit sleep appliance.  OAT is worn only during sleep and it fits like a sports mouth guard.   There is no mask, tubing or running motor. It supports the jaw in a forward position to help maintain an open upper airway.   The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) recommends OAT for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). 
Obstructive sleep apnea is diagnosed by the physician.  Once the patient is diagnosed with OSA, the physician and the patient can decide the best treatment option.  If OAT is the treatment option, the physician writes a prescription and refers patients to the Glendora Dentist who can provide OAT.
                                        Advantages of Oral Appliance Therapy 
•    Patient compliance
•    Comfortable
•    Easy to wear
•    Quiet
•    Portable
•    Convenient for travel
•    Easy to care for
                                   Glendora Dentist can help
•    Works closely with the physician to treat OSA
•    Talks to patients about the benefits of OAT
•    Provides information on potential side effects and the cost of OAT
•    Conducts a complete clinical evaluation: examination of the teeth, jaw, tongue and airway
•    Takes impressions and models of the teeth for lab to fabricate OAT
•    Fits and adjusts OAT, oral hygiene instructions
•    Schedules for sleep study to verify treatment (OAT ) success
•    Schedules follow up visits to ensure the optimal fit of OAT
•    Schedules for annual assessment 
Oral appliance therapy (OAT) helps travelers to continue their sleep apnea treatment while on the road. Treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) promotes a healthier heart, body and mind. With good sleep, you will live a happier and healthier life.  
If you want information on treatment options for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), schedule a free consultation with the Glendora Dentist, Dr. Anna Lee at 626-335-5114 or email [email protected]