Tongue Retaining Devices vs. CPAP: Which is the Better Choice for Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep, which can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels in the body and disrupt the quality of sleep. One of the most common treatments for sleep apnea is the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. However, there is another treatment option known as tongue retaining devices (TRDs) that have gained popularity in recent years. In this blog post, we will compare these two treatments and determine which one is the better choice for sleep apnea.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Before we dive into the comparison, let’s first understand what sleep apnea is and how it affects our body. There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and complex. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type, accounting for 84% of all sleep apnea cases. It occurs when the muscles in the throat relax and block the airway, causing pauses in breathing. Central sleep apnea (CSA) is less common and happens when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Complex sleep apnea is a combination of both OSA and CSA.

Symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, morning headaches, irritability, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Therefore, it is crucial to seek treatment for sleep apnea to improve overall health and well-being.

CPAP Therapy

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is considered the gold standard for treating sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask over the nose and mouth while sleeping, which is connected to a machine that delivers pressurized air to keep the airway open. The air pressure acts as a splint, preventing the airway from collapsing and allowing for normal breathing.

CPAP therapy has several benefits, including improving sleep quality, reducing daytime sleepiness, and lowering the risk of health complications associated with sleep apnea. It is also non-invasive and does not involve any medication, making it a safe treatment option for most people.

person sitting on a bed with head in hands, lamp and clock on nightstand in a dimly lit blue room

Tongue Retaining Devices vs. CPAP: Which is the Better Choice for Sleep Apnea?

However, CPAP therapy does have some drawbacks. The most common complaint is that the mask can be uncomfortable and may cause skin irritation. It can also be challenging to get used to wearing a mask while sleeping, and some people may find it difficult to fall asleep with the noise from the machine. Additionally, CPAP therapy can be costly, with the machine and supplies needing to be replaced regularly.

Tongue Retaining Devices (TRDs)

Tongue retaining devices (TRDs) are oral appliances that work by holding the tongue in a forward position to prevent it from blocking the airway. This helps to keep the airway open and allows for normal breathing. Unlike CPAP therapy, TRDs do not use pressurized air to keep the airway open, making them a less invasive treatment option for sleep apnea.

TRDs have several advantages, including being small and portable, making them easy to travel with. They are also relatively affordable compared to CPAP therapy and do not require electricity to function. Additionally, TRDs do not have any noise, making them a popular choice for people who are light sleepers or have a bed partner.

However, TRDs may not be suitable for everyone. They are not as effective as CPAP therapy, especially for people with severe sleep apnea. TRDs may also cause jaw or tooth discomfort, and some people may find them uncomfortable to wear while sleeping. They also need to be custom-made by a dentist, which can be a time-consuming and costly process.

Which is the Better Choice?

Choosing between CPAP therapy and TRDs depends on various factors, including the severity of your sleep apnea, personal preference, and budget. CPAP therapy is the more effective treatment option and is recommended for people with severe sleep apnea. However, if you have mild to moderate sleep apnea and find CPAP therapy uncomfortable, TRDs may be a suitable alternative for you.

It is also crucial to consult with a sleep specialist or dentist to determine the best treatment option for your specific needs. They can assess your condition and recommend the most suitable treatment to improve your sleep quality and overall health.

In conclusion, both CPAP therapy and TRDs are effective treatments for sleep apnea, but they have their pros and cons. CPAP therapy is the more effective and widely used treatment, while TRDs offer a more comfortable and affordable option for mild to moderate sleep apnea. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your individual needs and preferences.