TREATMENT OPTIONS
CPAP vs Mandibular Advancement Devices
CPAP and customised mandibular advancement devices can both be part of obstructive sleep apnoea care. A sleep clinician determines the diagnosis, treatment choice and how the response will be checked.
CPAP
Continuous positive airway pressure supports breathing using a machine and mask during sleep. It is often an important treatment, particularly where disease severity or clinical circumstances call for it.
An oral appliance
A mandibular advancement device holds the lower jaw forward during sleep. NICE describes customised splints as an option for selected adults who decline or cannot tolerate CPAP, subject to adequate dental and periodontal health. Suitability varies with severity and other health factors.
Changing treatment safely
If CPAP is difficult, discuss this with your sleep team before stopping it. A dental assessment can establish whether an appliance is feasible. Symptoms, comfort, bite and objective sleep outcomes need follow-up.