Breathing Machines: More Than Just CPAP

If you have sleep apnea and live near Bethesda, Bethesda Center for Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can provide you with a breathing machine. The machine attaches to a sleep mask that gives you a steady stream of air throughout the night. You'll stop snoring, and other sleep apnea symptoms will fade or disappear. With your body getting a steady supply of oxygen all night, your sleep will be more restful, and you'll experience less daytime fatigue.

The CPAP machine is the most common breathing machine. It provides a continuous stream of positive air pressure. The air moves through a flexible tube and into a sleep mask over your nose.

But CPAP is not the only option; there are other types of breathing machines as well. Some people do not prefer CPAP machines. However, it's worth noting that other machines tend to cost more than CPAP and are less likely to be covered by insurance.

A VPAP machine provides variable positive airway pressure. A BiPAP machine offers bilevel positive airway pressure. These machines allow for different air pressure when inhaling than when exhaling. For some people, VPAP or BiPAP therapy feels more natural and comfortable.

An APAP machine provides automatic positive airway pressure or auto-titrating continuous positive airway pressure. This type of breathing machine has sensors that monitor breathing and provide air as needed.

CPAP therapy is often covered by insurance. However, insurance is less likely to cover the cost of other breathing machines. Patients generally begin with CPAP treatment, moving on only if they're not satisfied.

If you think a breathing machine might be right for you, give Bethesda Center for Family and Cosmetic Dentistry a call at (888) 680-8757. We've helped lots of people in Maryland, and we'd be happy to make an appointment for you to discuss your treatment options.