For many people living with sleep apnea, CPAP therapy has long been the “go-to” solution. Yet countless patients abandon their machines after a few weeks or months of frustration. The good news? There are now comfortable, effective alternatives that can help you breathe easier and sleep better without the noise, bulk, or hassle of traditional CPAP equipment.
At Sierra Sleep, Airway & Wellness Center in Reno, NV, we specialize in non-invasive sleep apnea treatments tailored to each patient’s unique airway and lifestyle. One of the most successful options we offer is oral appliance therapy – a modern, dentist-designed solution that’s transforming how people manage sleep apnea.
Why So Many People Struggle With CPAP Therapy
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy works by keeping your airway open using a steady stream of air through a mask. While it can be very effective, it’s also notoriously difficult to tolerate long term.
Common complaints include:
- Mask discomfort or skin irritation
- Claustrophobic feeling while sleeping
- Noise from the machine disturbing sleep or partners
- Dry mouth and nasal congestion
- Difficulty traveling or cleaning equipment
In fact, studies show that up to half of CPAP users stop using their machine within the first year due to discomfort or inconvenience. When patients abandon CPAP, their sleep apnea remains untreated – leading to ongoing fatigue, brain fog, and increased health risks such as heart disease and stroke.
For those unable to tolerate CPAP, it’s important to know there are safe, proven, and comfortable alternatives available right here in Reno.
Oral Appliance Therapy: A Comfortable, Custom Solution
Oral appliance therapy has revolutionized sleep apnea treatment by offering a simple, non-invasive alternative to CPAP. Instead of pushing air through the airway, an oral appliance works by gently adjusting the position of the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open naturally while you sleep.
At Sierra Sleep, our team uses advanced 3D imaging to design and fit each appliance precisely for your mouth and bite. The appliance is small, portable, and easy to wear – similar to a mouthguard or orthodontic retainer.
How It Works
When worn at night, the appliance:
- Keeps the lower jaw slightly forward to prevent airway collapse
- Stabilizes the tongue and soft tissues
- Encourages proper airflow for quiet, restful breathing
This simple mechanical change can dramatically improve oxygen flow, reduce snoring, and eliminate apnea episodes – without the need for a mask or machine.
The Vivos System: A Breakthrough in Sleep and Airway Health
Among the most innovative oral appliances available today is the Vivos System, a treatment option offered at Sierra Sleep, Airway & Wellness Center. Unlike standard appliances that simply manage symptoms, the Vivos System aims to correct the underlying structural issues contributing to airway obstruction.
This FDA-cleared system uses light, natural forces to guide the growth and remodeling of oral and airway structures. Over time, this can result in lasting improvements in breathing and sleep quality, even after treatment ends.
Why Patients Choose Vivos
- Designed for long-term airway improvement
- Comfortable and discreet to wear
- FDA cleared for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, including severe cases
- Often eliminates or reduces the need for CPAP permanently
Patients love that Vivos therapy not only treats sleep apnea but also helps improve overall health, daytime energy, and cognitive function.
Other CPAP Alternatives to Consider
While oral appliance therapy is one of the most popular and effective alternatives, it’s not the only option. Depending on the severity of your sleep apnea and the structure of your airway, Sierra Sleep also offers:
- Silent Nite® Appliance – A simple and effective device for reducing snoring and mild sleep apnea.
- Tongue-Tie and Airway Therapy – When restricted tissues contribute to poor breathing, a release procedure combined with myofunctional therapy can help restore natural airflow.
- Lifestyle and Weight Management Guidance – Addressing nasal breathing, diet, and posture can further enhance results.
Our team takes the time to evaluate your airway, breathing patterns, and sleep data before recommending any therapy. This ensures that your treatment plan is not only effective but comfortable and sustainable.
The Benefits of Choosing Oral Appliance Therapy
Many patients are amazed at how quickly their sleep quality improves after switching to an oral appliance. The benefits go beyond comfort and convenience – they can be life-changing.
Top Advantages Include:
- Better Sleep Quality: Quiet, uninterrupted rest with improved oxygen levels.
- Comfort & Portability: No bulky equipment, cords, or hoses.
- Silent Operation: Ideal for light sleepers and their partners.
- Easy to Travel With: Compact enough for overnight trips and vacations.
- Improved Compliance: Most patients wear their appliance nightly without discomfort.
By improving oxygen flow and restorative sleep, oral appliances also contribute to better focus, mood, and energy levels during the day.
What to Expect at Your Sierra Sleep Consultation
Your journey to better sleep begins with a Comprehensive Sleep & Airway Consultation at our Reno office. During your visit, our team will:
- Review your medical history and symptoms
- Perform an airway evaluation and 3D imaging scan
- Explain the home sleep testing process
- Review your treatment options and expected outcomes
If oral appliance therapy is recommended, we’ll take impressions and digital scans to ensure your device fits comfortably and functions properly. Most patients experience noticeable improvement within the first few weeks of use.
We also coordinate care with your physician, ensuring your treatment plan supports your overall health goals.
Get the Rest You Deserve – Without the Mask
If you’ve tried CPAP and found it uncomfortable or unsustainable, you’re not alone – and you don’t have to live with untreated sleep apnea. Oral appliance therapy offers a proven, comfortable, and convenient alternative that can help you breathe better, sleep deeper, and wake feeling refreshed.
At Sierra Sleep, Airway & Wellness Center, we’re passionate about helping you find the right solution for your unique needs. Schedule your Comprehensive Sleep & Airway Consultation today to learn whether an oral appliance, Vivos therapy, or other alternative is right for you.
Better sleep starts with one simple step – contact our Reno team today.