If you’ve been exploring treatment options for obstructive sleep apnoea or chronic snoring, you may have come across the term Mandibular Advancement Splint Therapy. This therapy offers a unique approach to addressing sleep-related breathing disorders, but how exactly does it work, and what are its potential benefits?
Understanding the mechanisms behind this treatment can shed light on its efficacy and suitability for your specific needs. Stay tuned to learn the ins and outs of Mandibular Advancement Splint Therapy and whether it could be the solution you’ve been searching for.
How Does Mandibular Advancement Splint Work?
The Mandibular Advancement Splint gently positions your lower jaw forward during sleep to prevent airway obstruction and reduce snoring. This oral appliance, also known as a dental appliance, is a common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
The device is custom-made to fit your mouth and is worn while sleeping. By adjusting the position of your lower jaw slightly forward, the mandibular advancement splint helps keep your airway open, preventing the soft tissues at the back of your throat from collapsing and causing snoring or interruptions in breathing.
This therapy aims to improve airflow and reduce the symptoms associated with sleep-disordered breathing. The effectiveness of this device in managing OSA and snoring has made it a popular choice for individuals seeking a non-invasive treatment option.
Consult a dental sleep practitioner at Dental Sleep Professionals to determine if a mandibular advancement splint is the right solution for your sleep-related issues.
Benefits of Mandibular Advancement Splint Therapy
Experience the benefits of mandibular advancement splint therapy by exploring how this treatment can improve sleep quality and reduce symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea and snoring.
Mandibular advancement splints are custom-made dental appliances that are effective in helping patients with these conditions. When worn during sleep, these oral devices keep the lower jaw in a slightly forward position. This helps keep the airway open and prevents it from collapsing, which is a common issue in obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.
One of the significant benefits of mandibular advancement splint therapy is its custom fit by a dentist, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness. Patients find these oral devices more comfortable than other treatment options like CPAP machines. These dental appliances are also easy to wear and maintain, making them a convenient choice for many individuals.
Who Can Benefit From This Therapy?
If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) or chronic snoring, mandibular advancement splint therapy can be beneficial. This oral appliance, custom-made by a dentist to fit your upper and lower teeth, works by gently advancing your lower jaw during sleep, helping to keep your airway open and reduce breathing obstructions.
Patients who find continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines uncomfortable or cumbersome may particularly benefit from mandibular advancement splint therapy. It’s a more comfortable and convenient alternative for some individuals. Additionally, those who’ve trouble wearing a CPAP mask throughout the night may prefer the simplicity of using a custom-fit oral appliance.
If you have been diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA, mandibular advancement splint therapy may be a suitable treatment option for you. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider or a dentist specialising in sleep disorders to determine if this therapy is appropriate for your condition.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
When considering mandibular advancement splint therapy, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and important considerations.
Mandibular advancement splints (MAS) are custom-made oral appliances worn in the mouth to treat obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). While MAS therapy is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects such as excessive salivation, dry mouth, or temporary discomfort in the jaw or teeth. It’s crucial for patients using MAS to ensure that the appliance fits their mouth properly to avoid issues like bite or jaw alignment changes.
Important considerations for patients with OSA using mandibular advancement splints include regular follow-ups with their healthcare provider to monitor treatment progress and address concerns. Additionally, individuals should adhere to proper cleaning and maintenance practices for their oral appliances to prevent oral health issues. Understanding these potential side effects and considerations can help patients make informed decisions about incorporating mandibular advancement splint therapy into their OSA treatment plan.
Key Takeaways
If you or a loved one is struggling with obstructive sleep apnoea or snoring, consider exploring the benefits of mandibular advancement splint therapy and contact Dental Sleep Professionals at 02 9538 7218 (NSW) or 07 3477 9357 (QLD) to schedule a consultation. Learn more about how this non-invasive and effective treatment can improve sleep quality and overall well-being.
Don’t let sleep-related breathing issues impact your life any longer – take the first step towards a better night’s rest today.
Dr. Joachim Ngiam is a multi-award-winning dental sleep practitioner specializing in oral appliance therapy for snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). With over 30 years of experience, he has published numerous studies in peer-reviewed journals and lectures nationally and internationally, offering effective, non-invasive treatments to improve patients’ lives.
