Sleep apnea is a serious, sometimes fatal medical disorder that affects around 10% of American men over the age of 40, and 6% of American women of the same age.  Sleep apnea sufferers completely stop breathing during sleep, sometimes hundreds of times in a single night.  Normal breathing ceases because the airway becomes obstructed, causing a serious reduction of airflow to the lungs.

There are a number of dental devices that can be used to alleviate this condition. These devices all work in the same manner in which they hold the lower jaw in a more forward position. This slight repositioning opens up the airway, and allows oxygen to flow freely again.  Wearers of sleep apnea dental devices report that they stop loud snoring, feel more rested in the daytime, and are much more comfortable going to sleep.  Sleep apnea appliances are acceptable as the first line of treatment for patients who have been diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA. They offer a viable alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and for those patients who prefer a dental device and/or cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.

Sleep Apnea devices:

TAP^® 3 (Thornton Adjustable Positioner)

The TAP^® 3 is the smallest, most comfortable member of the TAP family.  It is a two-part custom-created sleep apnea appliance that fits over the teeth in much the same way as a sports mouthguard.  The TAP^® 3 projects the jaw forward to prevent the tongue and soft tissues from impeding the airway.  The lower jaw positioner is adjustable, which means that it can be altered to suit the comfort level of the wearer.  The TAP^® 3 appliance can accommodate the three main types of malocclusion, and allows the lips to fully close.

DORSAL 

The Dorsal device has a two piece construction that enables comfort for the patient as well as lateral jaw movement. The Dorsal fins on the mandibular appliance interface with inclines built into the buccal of the upper appliance to dictate a specific mandibular position. The appliance is traditionally fabricated with adjustable screws in the maxillary appliance to allow for further advancement. 

 SERENA

The SERENA device has a two piece construction of upper and lower trays made from durable, biocompatible, medical grade nylon. These trays are efficiently manufactured with minimal profile and anatomically correct design to maximize oral cavity volume. The ramps on the trays allow for precise incremental mandibular advancement to optimize success. 

If you have questions or concerns about sleep apnea appliances, please ask your dentist.