Can It Replace a CPAP Machine?
If you’ve been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you already know how exhausting the nights—and days—can feel. And if you’re someone who’s struggled to adapt to a CPAP machine, you’re not alone. For some patients, oral surgery becomes more than just an option—it becomes a lifeline.
What Is Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA)?
Despite the technical name, the idea behind maxillomandibular advancement is fairly straightforward: the upper and lower jaws are surgically moved forward to make more space in the airway. That forward shift helps stop soft tissues from collapsing and blocking airflow during sleep.
How Does It Compare to CPAP?
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines work by pushing air through the airway every night. MMA can fix the underlying structural issue. While you must use a CPAP machine nightly and perform routine maintenance, MMA is a one-time procedure with long-term effects. This procedure often allows patients to reduce or eliminate their dependence on machines.
Who’s a Good Candidate for MMA?
MMA isn’t a first-line treatment, but it can be a powerful option for people with:
- Moderate to severe OSA
- CPAP intolerance
- Narrow upper airway anatomy
A thorough evaluation by a sleep specialist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is necessary before deciding whether surgery is the right solution. You may need to undergo sleep studies and complete a medical history, which may require taking images. These factors all play a role in determining if MMA is appropriate.
Is Treatment Worth It?
Let’s not sugarcoat it—this is a lengthy procedure that requires time to recover from. Like any surgical procedure, it comes with risks. But for the right patient, MMA offers something CPAP can’t: the possibility of a permanent, no-device-needed solution. In fact, MMA has one of the highest long-term success rates of any surgical sleep apnea treatment!
If the mask isn’t working for you and you’re ready to breathe—and sleep—on your own terms, it might be time to consider what oral surgery could offer. Contact Empire Dental Specialty Group to learn more!
