Sleep apnea is a common sleeping disorder most often associated with respiratory interruptions during the sleep cycle. A pattern of snoring and frequently waking up 
during sleep are indicators of sleep apnea, a condition which can be potentially life threatening in some cases. Fortunately, there are many dental treatments available to help adults suffering from sleep apnea to get a good night’s rest.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Many mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea can be alleviated through behavioral modifications including a weight loss regimen, reduced alcohol and the use of sleeping pills, quitting smoking, or changing sleep positions.
More persistent cases may warrant nasal, jaw or throat surgery to correct structural issues contributing to the disorder. A doctor may recommend a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) which is a nasal mask worn over the face during sleep. A CPAP supplies air to the nostrils via an air compressor and a tube to regulate normal airflow. A CPAP may be a short-term or a long-term solution, depending on the comfort of the patient. Other options like dental devices offer less invasive relief.
Dental Device Types
Dental devices most often resemble mouth guards. Dental devices shift the user’s jaw forward and prevent the tongue from slipping back into the throat and not obstructing the airways. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the effectiveness of dental devices in relieving sleep apnea is increasingly positive. These devices can be purchased over the counter or can be specifically designed by dentists with experience in dealing with sleep apnea. Dentists or sleep specialists can provide custom fit mouthpieces.
Generally, there are two categories of dental devices, according to the AADSM (American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine): Tongue Retaining Appliances (TRA) and 
Mandibular Repositioning Appliances (MRA).
- TRA: “Tongue retaining appliances hold the tongue in a forward position using a suction bulb. When the tongue is in a forward position, it serves to keep the back of the tongue from collapsing during sleep and obstructing the airway in the throat.”
- MRA: “Mandibular repositioning appliances reposition and maintain the lower jaw in a protruded position during sleep. The device serves to open the airway by indirectly pulling the tongue forward, stimulating activity of the muscles in the tongue and making it more rigid. The device also holds the lower jaw and other structures in a stable position to prevent the mouth from opening.”
It’s not uncommon to come across other dental devices with variant acronyms. Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD) and Mandibular Repositioning Devices (MRD) are a couple of the many dental devices that seek to realign the airways.
Common Dental Devices
- aveoTSD – Tongue Stabilizing Device (TSD) that holds the tongue
- Narvel CC – Stabilizes the mandible by holding the lower jaw in position during sleep
- Silent Nite sl – Thin, comfortable and easy to operate
- Snore Rx – Flexible mouth guard with lockable settings, teeth cushions, and can be calibrated for comfort and to adjust to the wearer’s mouth type
- Splintec Inc., SleepRight Dental Guard Bite Guard – Two bite pads that fit around the molars to prevent teeth grinding
Adult sleep apnea sufferers should always consult their physicians or orthodontist first to determine the severity of their condition, or to see which devices are suitable to their needs.
Practices like Progressive Dental with dental offices in Binghamton, Endwell, Norwich and Montrose, P.A. provide orthodontic services that “can help fix all sorts of issues, ranging from crooked or overcrowded teeth to TMJ (jaw pain, tension, etc.), to dangerous sleep apnea (and the snoring that goes along with it!).” Using the latest technologies and building custom pieces in their in-house lab, they are” able to fit you with exactly the type of orthodontics you need, without unnecessary attention. From clear braces to night guards, we can make your orthodontics fit your lifestyle.”
Your health is important. When choosing the right dental device to correct adult sleep apnea, professional advice and attention are paramount to comfort and peace of mind.
