San Francisco and Marin CA
When people think of sleep apnea treatment, they typically imagine a sleep doctor prescribing a CPAP machine. But in many cases, your dentist—yes, your dentist—might be the ideal provider to help you manage obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), especially with comfortable, non-invasive options like oral appliance therapy.
At Glen Park Dental in San Francisco, we offer custom, travel-friendly, and highly effective alternatives to CPAP that many patients prefer. Here’s why seeing a dentist for sleep apnea treatment makes sense—and might be exactly what you need.
Discover CPAP Alternatives from Your Dentist
If you’ve already talked with a sleep doctor, they probably recommended a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. CPAP can be effective—but it’s not for everyone. Many people struggle to sleep with a mask on their face and air being forced down their throat. Even with accessories like humidifiers or custom masks, compliance with CPAP is low. And for those with mild or moderate sleep apnea or snoring, CPAP can feel like overkill.
What many people don’t realize is that oral appliance therapy, provided by trained sleep dentists, is a proven and FDA-approved alternative. These custom-fitted mouthguards reposition your jaw and tongue to keep your airway open during sleep—no mask, no machine, no noise.
At Glen Park Dental, our team is trained in Dental Sleep Medicine and adheres to the standards set by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM). We create oral appliances tailored to your anatomy and comfort.
Struggling With CPAP? You’re Not Alone
Wearing a CPAP machine correctly every night is challenging for many. Compliance is typically defined as using the machine for just four hours a night, five nights a week. But even people who meet that standard may still remove the mask during the early morning hours—ironically, when sleep apnea is often most severe.
That’s why so many patients switch to oral appliances, which people tend to wear through the entire night. They’re comfortable, easy to maintain, and far less intrusive than CPAP.
Do You Also Have TMJ?
Many patients with sleep apnea also suffer from TMJ disorders (TMD)—jaw pain, clicking, clenching, or tension headaches. That’s because the muscles and jaw structures involved in breathing and sleeping are closely connected to those affected by TMJ.
If you’re treating sleep apnea with the wrong device or approach, you might actually make TMJ worse. But when you work with a dentist trained in both TMJ and sleep apnea, like the experts at Glen Park Dental, we can address both conditions safely and effectively.
A Smart, Travel-Friendly Option
Frequent traveler? CPAP machines are not exactly carry-on friendly. You’ll need a separate bag, a power source, and space on your nightstand. Whether you’re flying for work or camping in the great outdoors, CPAP can feel like a burden.
Oral appliances, on the other hand, are:
- Portable – Fits in your pocket or carry-on
- No electricity required
- TSA-friendly
- Perfect for hotels, RVs, or cabins off the grid
Wherever you go, your oral appliance goes with you—no stress, no wires.
When Should You See a Sleep Dentist?
Here are some signs that it’s time to consult a dentist for sleep apnea treatment:
- You can’t tolerate CPAP
- You have mild or moderate sleep apnea
- You snore, but don’t have a CPAP diagnosis yet
- You suspect TMJ or jaw-related pain
- You want a more comfortable, discreet option
At Glen Park Dental, we’re here to help you breathe—and sleep—better with solutions that fit your lifestyle and improve your overall well-being.
Start Sleeping Better Tonight
Ready to explore your options for sleep apnea treatment? Our team at Glen Park Dental in San Francisco, CA can help you determine if oral appliance therapy is right for you.
📍 Located in San Francisco, CA
📞 Call us at (415) 799-3900 to schedule a consultation or request more information about CPAP alternatives.
