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At Optima Sleep, we understand that many patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) are exploring treatment options. One of the most commonly recommended devices is the CPAP machine, yet it’s important to understand precisely what it is and how it works, especially in comparison to alternative solutions like mandibular advancement splints.
The Basics of CPAP
CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. Essentially, a CPAP machine delivers a steady flow of pressurised air through a mask that fits over your nose, or nose and mouth. This constant air pressure acts like a stent, keeping the upper airway open during sleep and preventing the collapse that causes apnoeic events.
Technically speaking, the machine includes a motor or blower, tubing, a mask interface, and sometimes a humidifier or filter unit. Once turned on, it delivers airflow at a set pressure (or in some models, a variable pressure) to keep the airway patency maintained throughout inhalation and exhalation.
Common Limitations of CPAP
Despite being the gold‑standard treatment for many cases of OSA, CPAP machines have limitations that are worth discussing:
- Mask discomfort and compliance issues: Many users find the mask interface uncomfortable, claustrophobic or noisy. The mask seal can leak, causing skin irritation or dry mouth.
- Portability and convenience: CPAP machines are typically stationary, require power supply, and include tubing and a mask. This can make travel, side‑sleeping or wearing the device consistently more challenging.
- Noise, maintenance and lifestyle burden: The machine’s motor, filter changes, mask fit, cleaning and the need to use it every night (including naps) add to the patient’s commitment.
- Suitability for mild/moderate OSA: While highly effective for moderate to severe OSA, CPAP may be more than what some patients with mild OSA require, especially if compliance is low or the patient prefers less invasive options.
Why Mandibular Advancement Splints Are a Viable Alternative
At Optima Sleep, we specialise in treating snoring and mild to moderate OSA using custom‑fitted airway sleep devices (often known as mandibular advancement splints or sleep apnoea mouth guards). These devices hold the lower jaw forward during sleep, which enlarges the upper airway space and reduces collapsibility.
For suitable patients, this treatment pathway offers several advantages over CPAP:
- The device is worn in the mouth rather than strapped to the face, making it more comfortable and user‑friendly for many.
- It supports a lighter‑touch approach to airway management, especially ideal for mild to moderate cases where full‑scale CPAP may be over‑engineered.
- Because our clinic couples these devices with dental sleep medicine expertise, 3D digital workflows, home sleep testing, and ongoing care in collaboration with healthcare professionals, we offer a tailored alternative to CPAP rather than a one‑size‑fits‑all solution.
Context for Patients
If you’ve been informed you have mild to moderate OSA or habitual snoring and your clinician has suggested CPAP but you’re hesitant about mask use, consider this: the CPAP machine is very effective, but only if you use it every night and consistently. If compliance is likely to be an issue, or you prefer a less invasive setup, then a mandibular advancement splint may be a preferred route, particularly when guided by specialist dental sleep medicine as we provide at Optima Sleep.
In summary, a CPAP machine is a mechanical method to keep your airway open through constant air pressure. But because it carries a significant lifestyle impact and may be over‑qualified for certain levels of OSA, dental sleep treatment via custom airway devices offers a viable alternative, especially when orchestrated through a practice like Optima Sleep that offers home testing, customised devices and multidisciplinary care.