Dental sleep appliance therapy is scientifically-proven as an effective and comfortable treatment for snoring and sleep apnoea. In more severe cases of sleep apnoea, dental sleep appliances are an alternative therapy to positive airway pressure therapy.

Dental sleep appliances are also ideal for people who feel unable to use their PAP machine while traveling, camping, etc.

How do dental sleep appliances work?

Dental sleep appliances are worn in the mouth to treat snoring and sleep apnoea. These devices are similar in some ways to orthodontic retainers or sports mouth guards.

The main way that dental sleep appliances work is by preventing the tissues at the back of the throat and the base of the tongue from collapsing back into the airway while the patient sleeps.

There are many different designs of appliance, but most are often technically known as "mandibular advancement splints" (MAS) as these appliances bring the lower jaw (or mandible) forward bringing the tongue and associated muscles and soft tissues with it - thereby clearing the airway at the back of the throat.

How are dental sleep appliances made?

The ideal type of dental sleep appliances are those made from impressions and models of the patient's own teeth. Some precise measurements using special instruments are also required to ensure that the appliances will fit properly and have the desired treatment effects.

Types of dental sleep appliances

Whilst there are many different designs of dental sleep appliances, there are two basic types:

·               Non-adjustable appliances - many available appliances are non-adjustable, making the ideal forward position of the jaw a guess by the clinician.

·               Adjustable appliances - an adjustable appliance is far superior because it allows the lower jaw to be brought forward gradually until the ideal, most comfortable effective position is reached. Current scientific research demonstrates that adjustable appliance designs are the most effective.

Benefits of dental sleep appliance therapy

ü             The patient and their partner can look forward to a quiet night of sleep.

ü             No more embarrassing snoring sounds while traveling, camping or in any group situation.

ü             Wake up feeling refreshed rather than still sleepy or tired.

ü             Improved quality of life through greater vitality.

ü             Improved work performance due to greater concentration and energy levels.

ü             Decreased risk of fatigue-related vehicle and work accidents.

ü             Decreased risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, impotence and a host of other health problems.

An added benefit

Many people clench and grind their teeth while they sleep and are unaware that this is occurring. This condition, known as bruxism, is a common cause of damage to teeth and dental work. Dental sleep appliances have the added benefit of protecting teeth and dental work during sleep.