CPAP not working?
You have a next step.
Trouble using CPAP is worth discussing. Start with what is getting in the way, then review adjustments or other treatment options with your care team.
Keep your clinician
in the conversation.
Do not stop prescribed PAP therapy or change its prescribed settings without your treating clinician’s guidance. A difficult week does not tell you which alternative will control your sleep apnea.
If you feel too sleepy to drive safely, do not drive. Discuss ongoing daytime sleepiness with your clinician even if your device reports reassuring numbers.
Name the problem.
Make the visit useful.
Mask leaks, discomfort, or dry mouth
Ask your sleep team or equipment provider to review mask fit and comfort, humidification, and nasal symptoms.
Pressure feels difficult
Explain when it bothers you—falling asleep, breathing out, or during the night. Your prescribing clinician can review settings and whether a different PAP approach is appropriate.
Still tired despite use
Bring information about usage, symptoms, sleep time, and medicines. Your clinician can assess treatment effectiveness and other causes of sleepiness.
Discuss an appliance.
Or a combined plan.
For adults with obstructive sleep apnea who cannot tolerate CPAP or prefer an alternative, a sleep physician may consider a custom oral appliance. CPAP generally reduces breathing events more effectively; suitability for an appliance depends on your individual evaluation.
Dr. DeSaix assesses oral health and helps select an appliance around your clinical needs. Dental monitoring and follow-up sleep testing are part of checking whether treatment is working.
Some people use an appliance alongside PAP under a coordinated plan. Other patients need a different medical or surgical discussion.
Oral appliance therapyCombined therapy
Compare treatment options
Already have CPAP?
Tell us about it.
Our CPAP questionnaire asks about your experience with your equipment and sleep. It is not a diagnostic test or a treatment recommendation.
About the CPAP quizNo diagnosis or CPAP device yet? Learn about the sleepiness questionnaire or request a consultation.
Sources & further reading
Sources checked October 4, 2026. General education; individual care requires a clinical evaluation.
Find your
next step.
Bring your questions. We’ll help you plan a conversation with the right care team.