CPAP Alternatives for Sleep Apnea
If you’ve been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea but struggle to tolerate CPAP therapy, you are not alone.
Many patients in Grand Rapids seek alternatives to CPAP due to discomfort, noise, mask leaks, dry mouth, or difficulty sleeping with the machine.
West Michigan Sleep Network provides oral appliance therapy as a CPAP alternative for eligible patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
Why Do Patients Look for Alternatives to CPAP?
While CPAP is effective for many people, some patients experience:
Mask discomfort or pressure sores
Air leaks or noise disruption
Claustrophobia
Dry mouth or nasal irritation
Difficulty sleeping with tubing
Low nightly compliance
The most effective sleep apnea treatment is one that can be used consistently.
What Are the Main Alternatives to CPAP?
Several alternatives may be considered depending on the severity of sleep apnea and individual medical history.
Common CPAP alternatives include:
Oral appliance therapy
Positional therapy
Weight management strategies
Upper airway surgery (in select cases)
Inspire® hypoglossal nerve stimulation (for specific candidates)
Treatment recommendations should always follow a sleep study and medical evaluation.
Oral Appliance Therapy in Grand Rapids
Oral appliance therapy is one of the most commonly recommended alternatives to CPAP for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and for those who cannot tolerate CPAP.
At West Michigan Sleep Network in Grand Rapids, oral appliance therapy involves:
A custom-fitted dental device
Gentle forward positioning of the lower jaw
Stabilization of the airway during sleep
Adjustable titration for comfort and effectiveness
The device is small, quiet, and does not require a mask or machine.
Who Is a Candidate for a CPAP Alternative?
You may be a candidate for oral appliance therapy if:
You have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
You have attempted CPAP but cannot tolerate it
You prefer a non-machine treatment option
You travel frequently and want portability
You snore loudly and disrupt your sleep or a partner’s sleep
A sleep study is required before treatment.
Collaborative Sleep Apnea Care
Treatment is coordinated with sleep physicians and medical providers.
The process typically includes:
Review of sleep study results
Determination of candidacy
Custom appliance fabrication
Follow-up and adjustment
Monitoring of treatment effectiveness
This ensures care aligns with established sleep medicine guidelines.
Because sleep apnea is a medical condition, oral appliance therapy is typically billed through medical insurance when criteria are met.
West Michigan Sleep Network is one of the few practices in Grand Rapids that accepts medical insurance for oral sleep appliances.
Coverage often requires:
A documented sleep study
A diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea
A prescription from a medical provider
Documentation of medical necessity
West Michigan Sleep Network assists patients in understanding insurance eligibility.
Insurance Coverage for CPAP Alternatives
Dr. Ola is In-Network and participates with most major medical insurance carriers including:
Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Priority Health, Medicare, ASR Health Benefits, Tricare, United Healthcare
