Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Appliances
Snoring And Sleep Apnoea Appliances
Snoring and sleep Apnoea appliances are one of the options that you can use to treat snoring and mild or moderate sleep apnoea. They are also called Mandibular Advancement Splints (MAS). They look a bit like a mouth guard and are worn at night time only.
How Do Snoring And Sleep Apnoea Appliances work?
They position your lower jaw forwards, allowing your airway to open up more and there will be less of a chance that it will vibrate (snore) or obstruct.
What About Side Effects?
If fitted correctly, it should be comfortable most of the time. Some people may feel discomfort initially, but this tends to get better with prolonged use. Any discomfort is usually felt in the joint at the back of your jaw, just in front of the ear. This should soon go away when you take the appliance out in the morning. Other people may also find that there is increased saliva build up in the mouth, and that the teeth may feel tender. These symptoms should settle quickly with continuing use. Over the long term, there may be tooth movement, changes in your bite or problems with the joint and muscles of the jaw. It is important to have a regular check up with the dentist who supplied the appliance to detect these problems early so they can be dealt with.
How Can I Get One?
The first step is to see your general medical doctor who will refer you to a sleep specialist. The sleep specialist will determine how bad your snoring and sleep apnoea is. Usually to determine the severity, they will need you to do an overnight sleep study, which can be done at home or in a sleep lab. Once the results come out, the sleep specialist will talk to you about which treatment options are appropriate for your situation. If a snoring and sleep apnoea appliance is required, our dentists at Divine Dental Care are qualified to make the appliance for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a snoring and sleep apnoea appliance?
It is a custom-made dental device worn while sleeping to help reduce snoring and manage mild to moderate sleep apnoea. It works by gently repositioning the lower jaw to keep the airway more open. This can improve breathing and sleep quality.
2. How does the appliance help with snoring?
The device moves the lower jaw slightly forward, which helps prevent the airway from narrowing during sleep. This reduces the vibration in the throat that causes snoring. As a result, breathing becomes smoother and more consistent.
3. Who is suitable for this type of treatment?
It is typically recommended for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnoea or snoring issues. A proper diagnosis from a sleep physician is usually required before treatment. Your dentist will then assess whether an oral appliance is appropriate for you.
4. Do I need a sleep study before getting an appliance?
Yes, in most cases a sleep study is required to confirm the severity of sleep apnoea. This helps ensure you receive the most suitable treatment for your condition. Your doctor or sleep specialist will guide you through this process.
5. Is the appliance comfortable to wear?
Most patients find the appliance comfortable after a short adjustment period. Some initial jaw stiffness or extra saliva is common but usually settles quickly. Regular follow-ups help ensure the fit remains comfortable.
6. How long does it take to get used to the appliance?
Adjustment times vary, but many people adapt within a few weeks. Wearing it consistently helps the body adjust more quickly. Your dentist can make small adjustments if needed for comfort.
7. How long does a snoring appliance last?
With proper care, the appliance can last several years. Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure it continues to fit correctly and function well. Replacement may be needed if wear or changes in your bite occur.
8. Is this treatment an alternative to CPAP?
For some patients, especially those with mild to moderate sleep apnoea, oral appliances can be an alternative to CPAP therapy. However, suitability depends on your condition and medical advice. Your sleep specialist will help determine the best option.