Oral Sleep Appliances
When sleep apnea has been diagnosed, there are a range of treatments available. While a CPAP mask or surgery are common treatments, a much less invasive alternative is use of an oral sleep appliance, which can be administered and treated at our dental sleep practice.
Oral Sleep Appliances
Oral sleep appliances can be used as an alternative to a CPAP mask or surgery to treat obstructive sleep apnea. In fact, unless the patient is suffering from severe sleep apnea, oral appliances are as effective as the CPAP mask. Sleep-related oral appliances look similar to orthodontic retainers and TMJ appliances. They attempt to dilate or open the airway by altering the position of the lower jaw and/or preventing the tongue from falling back.
Why patients prefer oral sleep appliances over the CPAP mask:
- Non-invasive, conservative treatment
- Easy to use
- Repositions the soft palate and stabilizes the lower jaw, tongue, soft palate, and uvula
- Increased muscle tone, pharyngeal and genioglossus muscle activity
- Moderate cost compared to other treatments
Screening/Your First Visit
Upon your first visit as a sleep apnea patient, we will perform a complete screening diagnosis to identify the appropriate treatment.
This will include:- Complete medical/dental history
- Intraoral exam
- Checking upper airway for obstruction
- TMJ disorder/occlusal exam
- Measurement of throat and nasal airway via rhinometer and pharyngometer testing
How does the appliance work to help manage snoring/sleep apnea?
An oral appliance is a small plastic device that fits over the upper and lower teeth, similar to an orthodontic retainer or mouth guard. The appliance is worn in the mouth during sleep to prevent the soft tissues of the throat from collapsing and obstructing the airway. Oral appliances work by slightly advancing the lower jaw which in turn moves the base of the tongue forward and opens the airway to allow improved breathing and reduced snoring and apneas during sleep.
What percentage of people find the appliance to be effective?
If the problem is snoring only, the appliance is approximately 85% effective. When treating apnea, the appliance is 65-70% effective, depending on the severity of the apnea. The appliance tends to be more effective for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea than for severe cases.
