Can’t Tolerate a CPAP? A Dentist Might Be the Solution to Your Sleep Apnea

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, chances are you’ve heard three little letters more times than you’d like: CPAP. The Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine is often the go-to solution prescribed by sleep specialists—but for many patients, it’s easier said than tolerated. The mask, the hose, the noise, the dry mouth… it’s enough to leave you tossing, turning, or giving up altogether.

But what if we told you that your dentist in Atlanta might have a quieter, simpler, and more comfortable solution?

At 19th Street Dental, we help patients who struggle with sleep apnea find relief through oral appliance therapy—a non-invasive alternative that helps you breathe easier and sleep deeper without the bulk of a CPAP machine.

Let’s explore how it works, who it’s for, and why a trip to the dentist may be the key to waking up refreshed.

Sleep Apnea: The Disrupted Sleep You May Not Realize You Have

Sleep apnea is a common but serious condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during the night. These interruptions can last just a few seconds or even longer, and in many cases, you won’t even remember them happening. But your body will feel the effects.

Untreated sleep apnea can lead to:

• Loud, chronic snoring
• Morning headaches
• Daytime fatigue
• Memory issues and irritability
• Higher risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common type, occurs when the soft tissues in the back of your throat collapse and block the airway during sleep.

Why CPAP Isn’t for Everyone

CPAP therapy works by pushing a steady stream of air through your airway to keep it open. It’s extremely effective—when it’s used consistently. Unfortunately, many people can’t tolerate it.

Common CPAP complaints include:

• Feeling claustrophobic with the mask
• Dry mouth or nasal irritation
• Machine noise disturbing sleep
• Difficulty traveling with the device
• Struggling to sleep in certain positions

Studies show that a large percentage of CPAP users either stop using it or don’t use it consistently enough for it to be effective. That’s where your dentist comes in.

Oral Appliance Therapy: A Simpler Alternative

Oral appliance therapy is a custom-fitted dental device worn during sleep that gently repositions your lower jaw and tongue forward. This helps keep your airway open by preventing the collapse of soft tissues in the throat.

Think of it like a small, comfortable mouthguard—but with a big impact.

At 19th Street Dental, we design these appliances specifically for each patient. They’re lightweight, discreet, and travel-friendly, making them a great option for people who want an effective solution without the hassle of a CPAP machine.

How Do You Know if It’s Right for You?

Oral appliance therapy is often recommended for:

• Patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
• People with severe OSA who cannot tolerate CPAP
• Patients who snore heavily and want relief
• Those looking for a portable solution for travel

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea (through a sleep study) and either can’t tolerate CPAP or are simply looking for another option, a consultation with a dentist who specializes in sleep apnea treatment is the next best step.

At 19th Street Dental, we work closely with sleep physicians to ensure your oral appliance therapy is properly prescribed, monitored, and effective.

What the Process Looks Like

Getting started with an oral appliance is easier than you might think. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Consultation and evaluation
   We’ll review your sleep study, discuss your symptoms, and determine if oral appliance therapy is a good fit for you.
2. Custom impressions
   Using digital or physical impressions, we’ll create a model of your mouth to craft a custom appliance that fits comfortably and securely.
3. Fitting and adjustments
   Once your appliance is ready, we’ll make sure it fits perfectly and make small adjustments to maximize comfort and effectiveness.
4. Follow-up and monitoring
   We’ll check in regularly to ensure the appliance is doing its job and make changes if needed. Some patients also complete a follow-up sleep study to confirm improvement.

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy

Patients often find that oral appliances are:

• Comfortable and easy to wear
• Silent—no humming or airflow noise
• Portable—ideal for people who travel frequently
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Less intrusive than CPAP machines

Most importantly, they help reduce snoring, improve sleep quality, and decrease the health risks associated with untreated sleep apnea.

Real Rest, Real Results

Sleep plays a vital role in your health, mood, and quality of life. When you finally get uninterrupted, restorative sleep, you’ll notice the difference right away—more energy, better focus, and a clearer mind.

Research from the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine has shown that oral appliance therapy is effective for over 80% of patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. It’s also associated with high satisfaction rates and better long-term compliance than CPAP therapy for many users.

A Dentist Who Helps You Sleep Better?

It might sound surprising, but sleep apnea treatment is just one of the many ways dentistry supports whole-body wellness. At 19th Street Dental, we’re proud to offer sleep apnea solutions in Atlanta that go beyond traditional care.

If you’re tired of struggling with a CPAP—or if you’ve never been able to tolerate it in the first place—don’t give up on treatment. There’s a quieter, easier way to breathe and sleep better, and it starts with a dental visit.

A Good Night’s Sleep Might Be a Dental Appointment Away

Snoring, fatigue, and restless nights don’t have to be your new normal. If CPAP isn’t working for you, or you’re simply looking for an alternative, oral appliance therapy could be the solution you’ve been hoping for.

At 19th Street Dental in Atlanta, we help patients take back their sleep and their health—without the mask, noise, or discomfort.

Schedule your consultation today and start sleeping like you mean it.