/sc-assets/prd/practices/d85d2354-fcd3-426f-86bb-24542145520c/Screenshot 2023-09-14 at 10.25.05 AM.png)
Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) is an FDA approved treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). It involves the use of custom-made dental devices to enhance breathing and reduce sleep apnea episodes and snoring during sleep. These oral appliances are placed in the mouth, similar to a sports mouthguard or a dental retainer, aiming to reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open for better airflow. Studies have demonstrated that OAT effectively treats OSA through reduction in Apnea Hypoxia Index (AHI) and respiratory disturbance index Respiratory Disturbance Index (RDI) in patients.1, 2 Studies have demonstrated similar effectiveness between OAT and CPAP. 3
OAT provides the same short and long-term health benefits as CPAP, including:
Reduced risk of cardiovascular mortality
Reduced depression
Reduction in blood pressure
Improved driving performance
Improved sleep quality
Better quality of life
• Reduced daytime sleepiness6
The oral appliance works by either advancing the lower jaw forward or stabilizing the tongue in a more forward position, depending on the specific design of the device. By doing so, it helps prevent the collapse of the airway, a common characteristic of OSA. Maintaining an open airway allows for better airflow, reduces the frequency and severity of sleep apnea events during the night, and improves snoring.
Advantages of Oral Appliance Therapy for OSA include:
Advantages of Oral Appliance Therapy for OSA include:
Patients comply with OAT: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is often prescribed as the first-line therapy for those with OSA; however, about 50% of patients will become non-compliant with their treatment after one year.9 Studies
have indicated that up to 93% of patients are compliant with OAT.10
Non-invasive: Unlike CPAP machines, which require a mask and air pump, oral
appliances are less invasive and more comfortable to wear.11
Portable and travel-friendly: Oral appliances are small, lightweight, and easy to
transport, making them convenient for travel or use outside the home.
Patients prefer OAT: As many as 81% of patients prefer OAT to CPAP because it is
effective, easy to use, easy to transport, quiet, comfortable, and less obtrusive.11
Quieter: Oral appliances produce little to no noise, which can be beneficial for
both the wearer and their sleep partner.
/sc-assets/prd/practices/d85d2354-fcd3-426f-86bb-24542145520c/Screenshot 2023-09-14 at 10.31.10 AM.png)
CPAP is the “gold standard” for OSA and OAT is typically prescribed for individuals with mild to moderate OSA that are intolerant to CPAP. OAT is also recommended for severe OSA patients to wear in conjunction with their CPAP to improve results.
It’s essential to obtain a proper diagnosis and consult with a physician or sleep specialist before starting Oral Appliance Therapy. Dr. Elenbaas will create a custom-fit appliance based on the individual’s mouth anatomy, ensuring comfort and effectiveness. Regular follow-ups and adjustments will be necessary to achieve the best results and address any potential side effects or changes in the condition. Plus, a post-adjustment assessment with the physician will be conducted to confirm the oral appliance is providing effective treatment.