More patients with obstructive sleep apnea are being treated with oral appliance therapy. Studies have shown that the oral appliance therapy is highly-effective. It also has a high rate of success. Oral appliance therapy is ideal for patients with obstructive sleep disorder or snoring. It is also great for people who are looking for an alternative treatment.
People who want to get oral appliance therapy should have at least 10 well-supported, healthy and well-distributed teeth. They must also have a tempo-mandibular joint system that is stable without restriction and pain during protrusive or lateral excursions.
Dentists have to receive extra training in dental sleep medicine because this is not taught in residency programs or dental school. There are several oral appliances available. Patient physiology, anatomy, preferences and sleep behavior are things that determine the type of oral appliance that is recommended. Patients who use oral appliance therapy will need to follow-up regularly with their physicians and dentists.