People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and airflow stops. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.
Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to very serious cardiovascular problems. Additionally, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration.
Some patients have obstructions that are less severe called Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). In either case, the individuals suffer many of the same symptoms.
The first step in treatment resides in recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer consultation and treatment options.
In addition to a detailed history, the doctors will assess the anatomic relationships in the maxillofacial region. With cephalometric (skull x-ray) analysis, the doctors can ascertain the level of obstruction. Sometimes a naso-pharyngeal exam is done with a flexible fiber-optic camera. To confirm the amount of cardiovascular compromise and decreased oxygenation levels, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor an individual overnight.
There are several treatment options available. An initial treatment may consist of using a nasal CPAP machine that delivers pressurized oxygen through a nasal mask to limit obstruction at night. One of the surgical options is an uvulo-palato-pharyngo-plasty (UPPP), which is performed in the back of the soft palate and throat. A similar procedure is sometimes done with the assistance of a laser and is called a laser-assisted uvulo-palato-plasty (LAUPP). In other cases, a radio-frequency probe is utilized to tighten the soft palate. These procedures are usually performed under light IV sedation in the office.
In more complex cases, the bones of the upper and lower jaw may be repositioned to increase the size of the airway (orthognathic surgery). This procedure is done in the hospital under general anesthesia and requires a one to a two-day overnight stay in the hospital.
OSA is a very serious condition that needs careful attention and treatment. Most major medical plans offer coverage for diagnosis and treatment.
SomnoDent® Avant™
Fairview Mall Dental Center is dedicated to providing advanced and comfortable solutions for various dental issues, including sleep apnea. One of our key offerings in this domain is the SomnoDent® Avant™, a revolutionary appliance designed to enhance your sleep quality. Crafted with precision, the upper and lower splints of SomnoDent® Avant™ are computer-designed and manufactured by robots. This process ensures a perfect fit to the shape of your teeth, utilizing a single piece of dental acrylic that enhances durability, making the splints last longer.
What sets SomnoDent® Avant™ apart is the incorporation of the soft Bflex liner, which not only cradles and supports your teeth but also adds a layer of comfort to the appliance. The Bflex liner cushions the device against your teeth, making it more pleasant to wear. This comfort is crucial in ensuring consistent usage, as individuals are more likely to adhere to their treatment for sleep apnea when the appliance feels comfortable and secure during sleep.
Moreover, the innovative design of SomnoDent® Avant™ goes beyond comfort. This appliance gently closes your mouth during sleep, promoting breathing through your nose. This unique feature not only addresses snoring issues in most individuals but also helps prevent the common complaint of dry mouth associated with other oral appliances and CPAP machines. At Fairview Mall Dental Center, we are committed to offering cutting-edge solutions like SomnoDent® Avant™ to improve your sleep and overall well-being.
Herbst Advance®
The Herbst Advance® is a traditionally made oral appliance sold mostly in the United States and is our most popular brand in the US market. Our Herbst Advance® can be ordered either with or without the soft Bflex liner.
SomnoMed®’s Herbst Advance appliances include a number of patented features that add strength to the appliance – meaning that our Herbst device is reliable and longer lasting.