Oral Appliance Therapy vs Surgery for Sleep Apnea

Understanding Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea

Oral appliance therapy is a non-invasive treatment option commonly used for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. This approach involves wearing a custom-fitted device during sleep that repositions the jaw or tongue to keep the airway open. 

At RI Oral Surgery & Implant Center, Dr. English works closely with patients and sleep specialists to ensure ideal outcomes with this conservative solution. The benefits of oral appliance therapy include:

• Non-surgical and easy to use
• Custom designed for a comfortable fit
• Portable and convenient for travel
• No need for power or batteries
• Often covered by medical insurance for sleep apnea treatment

It’s important to remember that oral appliances are most effective for selected cases of sleep apnea and may not provide long-term relief if certain anatomical issues are contributing to airway obstruction.

When Is Surgery Recommended for Sleep Apnea?

Surgical intervention may be the most appropriate treatment when non-invasive options have not provided adequate relief or if structural abnormalities are involved. Dr. English’s advanced surgical training and years of experience in oral and maxillofacial procedures enable him to deliver highly personalized care for patients considering this route. 

Surgery aims to address the root cause of the obstruction, and in many cases, can provide a permanent solution when oral appliances or CPAP therapy are ineffective or poorly tolerated. Sleep apnea surgery options may include:

• Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): Removes excess tissue in the throat to widen the airway
• Genioglossus advancement: Repositions the tongue muscle attachment to prevent airway blockage
• Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA): Shifts the upper and lower jaw forward to open the airway

Depending on your needs, we may be able to perform your surgery in-house at RI Oral Surgery & Implant Center, or in collaboration with a local hospital. Dr. English believes in conservative care, so he will only recommend oral surgery if he truly believes it’s a better alternative to other treatment methods like oral appliance therapy, CPAP machines, and lifestyle changes.

Personalized Approach to Sleep Apnea Treatment

At RI Oral Surgery & Implant Center, Dr. Ray English provides a comprehensive approach to sleep apnea care by evaluating each patient’s unique anatomy, health history, and treatment goals. 

Whether recommending oral appliance therapy or surgery, every step is guided by compassion, precision, and a commitment to improving long-term health. What sets Dr. English apart is his dedication to:

• Clear communication to explain all treatment options
• A collaborative approach with sleep physicians for accurate diagnosis and follow-up
• Offering multiple sedation options to make surgical procedures as comfortable as possible
• Using advanced imaging and technology for predictable surgical outcomes

Patients can feel confident knowing that their care is led by a highly recognized expert with a patient-first philosophy rooted in safety and support.

Choosing Between Treatments: What’s Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for sleep apnea. Deciding between oral appliance therapy and surgery depends on your severity of symptoms, effectiveness of previous treatments, and individual lifestyle needs. 

Dr. English evaluates all of these factors at your consultation and helps you weigh the pros and cons of each option in a low-pressure, informative setting. Considerations when choosing a treatment path:

• How mild or severe your obstructive sleep apnea is
• Your comfort and tolerance for wearing appliances or undergoing surgery
• The underlying causes of your airway obstruction
• Your preference for non-invasive vs. definitive surgical treatment

From initial diagnosis support to long-term treatment success, Dr. English aims to build individualized care plans that enhance both quality of sleep and overall health.

Explore Your Sleep Apnea Treatment Options in Cranston

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea or are struggling with existing treatments, Dr. Ray English and the caring team at RI Oral Surgery & Implant Center in Cranston are here to help. Whether you're a candidate for oral appliance therapy or need surgical intervention, we’ll guide you with expert insight and personalized care. Call (401) 732-1188 today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward restful, healthier sleep.