TREATING OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA USING AN ORAL APPLIANCE

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when a person’s upper airway becomes obstructed during sleep because of heavy snoring. This can lead to symptoms such as heavy daytime fatigue, and cardiovascular complications.
Nasal continuous positive airway pressure machines (CPAP) have generally been the standard treatment used to treat OSA. However, many patients are unable to tolerate this form of treatment. An oral appliance, both endorsed by the Academy of Sleep Medicine, and approved by the Food and Drug Administration, provides a simple, inexpensive, alternative approach to CPAP.
This oral appliance, made of acrylic polymer, secures to the upper and lower dental arches, using metal clasps and an expansion screw for adjustments. Each turn pulls the tongue forward, expanding the size of the patient’s airway, allowing for an increased flow of oxygen.

These types of treatments are typically performed by dentists because of their knowledge of oral structures, but should first be recommended by a physician. After the oral appliance is in place, follow-up visits with the dentist will become necessary to maintain and adjust the appliance. The patient will also require follow-up care from the physician, who will monitor the patient’s medical progress.