What is the Most Effective Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea?

Nov 01, 2020

The use of oral appliances to promote a comfortable nap is one of many ways used to control sleep apnea. Here is more on the topic.

The oral devices used to treat sleep apnea work by pushing the jaw and tongue forward, expanding the airway, thus enhancing breathing. They are mostly used if other treatment procedures such as surgery or behavioral therapy did not work, or you have mild or moderate sleep apnea.

If you are snoring at night and suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s important that you make an appointment with your doctor. The diagnosis made will determine the mode of treatment suitable for you.

The doctor makes a mold of your dental or oral structure that will be used to make the oral appliance to be used. It is recommended to do follow-ups with your specialist even after the fitting. This will ensure you are adjusting as expected to the device. For more information on these appliances, you can reach out to us at Satsuma Family Dental.

10 Oral Appliances Used for Sleep Apnea

There are many oral devices for sleep apnea today, which can make choosing the right one challenging. Some of the oral appliances available will either reposition your jaw or hold your tongue forward. Our specialist dentist in Satsuma, AL, will help you choose an oral device for sleep apnea that suits your needs. The following are some of the oral appliances available.

1. Elastic Mandibular Advancement Appliance

The EMA is a non-invasive device. It works by opening the bite and pushing the mandible forward by the interchangeable, adjustable elastic straps. The elasticity of the straps ensures that there is no strain during movement, providing comfort. The trays are custom made and prevent teeth movement.

2. Clasp Retained Mandibular Positioner

The CRMP uses multiple clasps to lock the mandible into place. You can change the height of the device since it is a one-piece.

3. Elastomeric Sleep Appliance

This is custom made in a dental laboratory. It is made of soft, pliable silicone. There are no clasps needed to adjust the device since it tends to adapt to the user’s comfort.

4. Tongue Stabilizing Device

It is known as the Aveo TSD. The device is anti-snoring and made out of a soft silicone material. It holds the tongue forward, preventing it from falling against the throat. There is no need for a specialist fitting since it doesn’t hold onto the teeth for support. However, professional consultation and guidance are required to ensure it’s compliant with your needs. The Aveo TSD is easy to use and inexpensive.

5. Mandibular Inclined Repositioning Appliance

The MIRS maintains an open airway by directly holding the jaw in an outward downward position with a flange. The flange is made of a thermoplastic material that softens at body temperature, making it feel comfortable. A hard acrylic is used to make the device’s body, and the snap is fitted to the upper arch. A hole is fitted in the anterior part of the appliance so that you can breathe throughout your sleep.

6. Medical, Dental Sleep Appliance

This oral device for sleep apnea is used for moderate or mild sleep apnea conditions. It contains features that promote comfort, allows minimum opening of the bite hole, and is adjustable. The chances of your throat collapsing are minimal since it holds the jaw and tongue forward.

7. Full Breath Appliance

It opens up the airway by inhibiting the rise and backward movement of the tongue. There is a high chance of preventing snoring with the Full Breath appliance. It has subtle but effective adjustments.

8. Lamberg Sleep Well Device

LSWD is inserted in the mouth and rests on the palate. The appliance’s protruding part settles at the back of the anterior teeth, allowing the lower jaw to move freely. It prevents clenching, thus minimizing bruxism.

9. Oral Pressure Appliance

The OPAP® is used together with the mask ventilation if you are uncomfortable with that nasal mask appliance. The mandibular alteration and modification of upper respiratory passages structures increase the airways sizes and minimize the possibility of collapsing. A dental exam may be taken before an impression is made to determine if the appliance is suitable for you.

10. OSAP

It is custom made with a soft, flexible material that ensures maximum comfort to the user. They are effective with or without the oral air passages. You can use them if you are edentulous or missing your upper teeth. The trial devices can also be used to test your tolerance to oral sleep apnea therapy.

Advantages of Oral Sleep Apnea Devices

They are portable.
Do not require electrical energy to function, making them more accessible and cheaper.
Quiet and comfortable.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are still confused about Sleep Apnea Treatment in Satsuma, AL, you can give us call to schedule a consultation with our dentist near you. We also cater to patients residing in nearby communities like Saraland, Pennsylvania, Williams Heights, Tajaucha Drive North, Charles V Street, Sioux Avenue, Higgins Dr, and Walker Lane.