Suffolk Reporter

Dr. Clifford Brown, a sleep apnea specialist at Silent Night Therapy of Babylon Dental Care, highlights the benefits of oral appliances as a more convenient and portable solution for managing sleep apnea while traveling.

"[Oral Appliances are a] travel-friendly alternative to CPAP machines," said Brown. "A sleep appliance is an excellent alternative to CPAP, offering convenience and portability without the need for electricity or additional supplies. Patients should never compromise their health while traveling; planning ahead ensures they stay treated effectively for sleep apnea."

Traveling with sleep apnea presents challenges, particularly for those reliant on Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, these devices, though effective, are often bulky and require specific power sources, making them cumbersome to transport through airports. Users may face difficulties maintaining their treatment regimen due to logistical issues such as packing the machine, accessing compatible electrical outlets, and ensuring hygiene during transit. These barriers can lead to lapses in treatment, potentially compromising health and overall travel experience.

For individuals seeking alternatives, oral appliances offer a more portable solution. The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine states that these devices resemble custom-fitted mouthguards and work by repositioning the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep. They are clinically proven to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea and are suitable for those who cannot tolerate or prefer not to use CPAP machines. Their compact size and ease of use make them especially advantageous for travel.

Brown emphasizes that oral appliances serve as an effective alternative to CPAP machines. "Easy to travel—no bulk or additional baggage fees incurred; it fits into a small retainer/denture case and can easily go into a carry-on bag. It does not require electricity, so there are no concerns about converter plugs," he says. These appliances address the challenges associated with traveling with bulky CPAP machines.

For frequent travelers with sleep apnea, Brown notes the simplicity and convenience of oral appliances: "Oral appliances do not require supplies like distilled water, which can be difficult to obtain while traveling," he says. He advises patients to plan ahead for trips since these appliances are custom-fabricated and typically take 4-6 weeks to receive. Additionally, Brown recommends maintaining a healthy diet and sleep regimen while traveling as factors like overindulgence in carbohydrates, sugary foods, and alcohol can interfere with sleep quality.

According to Silent Night Therapy's website, Dr. Clifford Brown founded Babylon Dental Care in 1983 and expanded after 28 years by opening a second location in West Babylon. During his dental education, he received training in Dental Sleep Medicine and Oral Appliance Therapy. As a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and the Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorder Disciplines—and being a sleep apnea patient himself—Brown is committed to improving the quality of life for those affected by this condition.