Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious condition that affects breathing during sleep, often leading to daytime fatigue, heart complications, and even cognitive decline. Thankfully, effective sleep apnea treatment options exist, and two of the most common are CPAP therapy and oral appliance therapy. If you’re trying to decide which is right for you, understanding how they compare in comfort, effectiveness, and long-term use is essential.

At our Houston, TX dental office, we help patients find customized sleep apnea solutions that improve their health and quality of life. Whether you’re CPAP intolerant or exploring oral appliance therapy for the first time, this article will guide you through the differences to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea doesn’t just cause snoring or restlessness—it disrupts oxygen flow and places stress on the entire body. When breathing pauses throughout the night, your brain repeatedly wakes you, preventing deep, restorative sleep.

Untreated OSA increases your risk of:

  • High blood pressure and heart disease
  • Stroke and diabetes
  • Chronic fatigue and impaired concentration
  • Depression and mood swings

Choosing a sleep apnea treatment method that works for your lifestyle can protect your long-term health and restore energy, focus, and restful sleep.

How CPAP Therapy Works

CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. This treatment involves wearing a mask connected to a machine that delivers a constant air flow, keeping your airway open while you sleep.

The CPAP system includes:

  • A facial or nasal mask
  • A hose connecting the mask to a bedside machine
  • Adjustable pressure settings based on your sleep study results

CPAP is considered the gold standard for moderate to severe OSA because it provides consistent airway support. However, despite its effectiveness, many patients find it challenging to use it nightly.

Common CPAP Challenges

For many individuals, the bulky equipment and noise associated with CPAP can interfere with sleep instead of improving it. Some of the most common issues reported by CPAP users include:

  • Claustrophobia or discomfort from the mask
  • Dry nose or mouth
  • Air leakage or pressure-related soreness
  • Noise disturbance (from the machine or airflow)
  • Difficulty traveling with equipment

Because of these challenges, CPAP compliance rates are lower than expected—many patients eventually stop using the device regularly, which puts their health at continued risk.

What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?

Oral appliance therapy (OAT) is a practical, non-invasive alternative to CPAP offered by a dentist for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. This treatment involves wearing a custom-fit mouthpiece at night that gently shifts your lower jaw forward to keep your airway open.

At Stephens & Gatewood Dentistry, we design these appliances in-house using digital scans to ensure a perfect fit. Each device is small, comfortable, and easy to use—and many patients find they are far more manageable than a CPAP machine.

Comparing Comfort and Convenience

When choosing between CPAP and oral appliance therapy, comfort often plays a deciding role. While both treatments aim to prevent airway collapse, they differ in how they fit into your nightly routine.

CPAP Side Effects and Limitations

  • Mask irritation, facial marks, and pressure sores
  • Dry or stuffy nose from air pressure
  • Difficulty sleeping with tubes and straps
  • Incompatibility with certain sleep positions (especially stomach or side sleepers)
  • Inconvenience during travel due to machine size and need for power source

Oral Appliance Advantage

  • Compact, portable design
  • No noise, tubes, or wires
  • Easier to clean and maintain
  • Greater comfort and freedom of movement
  • Better adherence for long-term use

Although oral appliances can initially cause minor jaw or tooth discomfort, most users adapt quickly. In rare cases, long-term use may slightly shift tooth alignment, but we monitor these changes with regular dental follow-ups.

Effectiveness and Compliance

Both CPAP and oral appliance therapy are effective—but only if used consistently. The best treatment is the one you’ll use every night.

Recent studies show that while CPAP delivers more airflow control, oral appliances are more likely to be used regularly. This means that for many patients, an oral appliance’s real-world effectiveness equals or exceeds that of CPAP.

At Stephens & Gatewood Dentistry, we often see patients who have tried CPAP unsuccessfully and are now thriving with a custom-fitted appliance. Oral appliance therapy offers a more practical path to consistent results for those with mild to moderate OSA.

Who’s the Best Candidate for Each Option?

While every patient is different, there are general guidelines to determine which treatment is most effective based on your diagnosis and lifestyle.

CPAP Might Be Best For:

  • Patients with severe OSA
  • Those who have tried and failed with oral appliances
  • Individuals needing higher, adjustable pressure for airway stability

Oral Appliance Therapy Might Be Best For:

  • Patients with mild to moderate OSA
  • Individuals who find CPAP uncomfortable or intolerable
  • Frequent travelers or those with limited space at home
  • Patients with TMJ or jaw pain (if the appliance is custom-designed with joint function in mind)

Our practice offers in-home sleep testing using WatchPAT technology to assess your apnea levels and determine candidacy for oral appliance therapy.

Tips for Successful Treatment Use

Building a consistent sleep routine and maintaining your equipment is key, regardless of your treatment. Here are some helpful strategies:

  • If using CPAP, ensure your mask fits properly to avoid air leakage
  • Use a heated humidifier to reduce nasal dryness
  • For oral appliances, ease into wear time gradually and clean the device daily
  • Keep follow-up appointments to monitor fit, jaw health, and sleep quality
  • Report any discomfort or changes to your dentist or sleep physician

Remember, no treatment works overnight. Give your body time to adjust and seek support if you need it.

Why Choose Stephens & Gatewood Dentistry for Sleep Apnea Care?

Our experienced team doesn’t just treat teeth—we help patients improve their sleep and overall health. At Stephens & Gatewood Dentistry, we offer:

  • In-home sleep apnea testing
  • Digital scanning and custom oral appliance fitting
  • Collaborative care with sleep physicians
  • Ongoing follow-up and appliance adjustment
  • Consideration for TMJ health and bite alignment
  • Two convenient Spring, TX locations: Cypresswood and Auburn Lakes

We understand how life-changing better sleep can be. That’s why we’re committed to helping you find a comfortable, sustainable solution for your sleep apnea—whether that’s oral appliance therapy or CPAP.

Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep

If you suspect you have sleep apnea or are struggling with your current CPAP setup, let’s talk. Schedule a consultation with Stephens & Gatewood Dentistry to explore your options and take control of your sleep health.

We’re here to help you breathe easier—night after night. Call today at (281) 320-2000 to request an appointment and get started.