Previously, patients with sleep apnea had three treatment options: CPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy, and corrective surgery. Although these methods were effective, some patients still experienced sleep apnea symptoms. Fortunately, our practice offers a solution that combines the benefits of the two most popular treatments: combined therapy. This approach provides patients with the reliability of a CPAP machine and the comfort and flexibility of an oral appliance simultaneously. For many patients, this combination is the answer they have been searching for to alleviate their sleep apnea. We are prepared to offer this solution to our patients.
Combined Therapy Part 1: CPAP Therapy
CPAP therapy is the most commonly prescribed treatment for sleep apnea today because it is effective. It involves wearing a facemask connected to an air pump that provides a steady stream of oxygen to keep the airway open during sleep. However, there are some drawbacks to this method. The machine can be noisy, especially on higher settings, which can disturb both the patient and those sleeping nearby. The facemask can feel constricting and may cause feelings of claustrophobia. Additionally, the machine is bulky and inconvenient for travel. Lastly, for some patients, CPAP therapy may not effectively relieve their sleep apnea symptoms.
Combined Therapy Part 2: Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliance therapy is a treatment for sleep apnea that involves wearing a custom-made mouthguard during the night. This therapy works by moving the jaw slightly forward to prevent the soft tissues in the mouth and throat from blocking the airway. It has been approved by both the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, and it is the main treatment offered at our practice. Dr. Mai has successfully helped many patients improve their sleep using oral appliances. However, it may not be suitable for all patients, especially those with severe sleep apnea.
Combined Therapy: The Best of Both Worlds
Our practice offers combined therapy to assist patients who are not receiving complete benefits from a single treatment method. This involves wearing an oral appliance and using a CPAP machine simultaneously. By combining these two treatments, their individual strengths are enhanced.
The oral appliance partially opens the patient's airway, allowing the CPAP machine to be set at a lower level. This reduces the overall noise and discomfort associated with the machine and enables the patient to wear a small nasal mask instead of a full facemask. Additionally, this approach makes it more convenient to continue sleep apnea treatment while traveling. If you frequently travel for business, you can simply bring your oral appliance instead of packing the entire CPAP machine. Ultimately, this combined therapy offers a suitable compromise that many patients have been seeking.
When Should a Person Consider Combined Therapy?
If Dr. Mai and your sleep doctor have consulted and advised you, combined therapy may be recommended.
- CPAP therapy doesn’t relieve your sleep apnea symptoms
- You are unable or unwilling to consistently use your CPAP
- Oral appliance therapy doesn’t provide relief from your sleep apnea
- You would like an alternative to corrective surgery
- You have already undergone surgery and still experience sleep apnea symptoms
The Benefits of Combined Therapy
- Combined therapy offers increased comfort for patients compared to CPAP therapy alone. The smaller mask and lower CPAP setting make it more comfortable, and it also reduces the noise for those sleeping near the patient.
- Previously, patients with severe sleep apnea couldn't use oral appliance therapy, missing out on its benefits. However, combined therapy now allows more patients to benefit from a custom-made treatment.
- Compliance with CPAP therapy is low due to discomfort, but combined therapy is often more comfortable and convenient, increasing the likelihood of regular use and improving health benefits.
- Combined therapy has been proven more effective at preventing apnea events compared to CPAP therapy alone. Untreated patients experienced about 7 apnea events per hour, reduced to about 4 with CPAP therapy, and further reduced to about 2 with combined therapy.
- Combined therapy offers increased convenience for frequent travelers who can easily pack their oral appliance, ensuring a good night's rest no matter where they are.
Is Combined Therapy Right for Me?
At our practice, we believe in personalized treatments tailored to your specific needs. While combined therapy may be a suitable option for you, Dr. Mai will only recommend it after a consultation with you and consulting with a local sleep doctor. This will ensure that he fully understands your needs and determines the best approach to address them. If you and Dr. Mai agree that combined therapy or oral appliance therapy is the right choice, he can promptly provide the treatment.
If you would like to learn more about combined therapy and how it can improve your sleep or the sleep of a loved one, please contact us today. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the necessary steps to receive the treatment you deserve.