Sleep Apnoea Treatment
1 What is Sleep Apnoea?
Sleep apnoea occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat relax excessively, causing the airway to narrow or close entirely. This results in pauses in breathing that can last from a few seconds to a minute or more, disrupting your sleep cycle. The most common type of sleep apnoea is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), which occurs when the airway is physically blocked.
2 Risk Factors for Sleep Apnoea:
- Excess weight: Obesity significantly increases the risk of sleep apnoea due to fat deposits around the upper airway.
- Neck circumference: A thicker neck can narrow the airway, increasing the likelihood of obstruction.
- Aging: Sleep apnoea is more common in older adults.
- Family history: A family history of sleep apnoea can increase your risk.
- Alcohol or sedative use: These substances relax the muscles in your throat, worsening sleep apnoea.
- Smoking: Smoking increases inflammation and fluid retention in the upper airway.
How We Can Help
Take-Home Sleep Studies
Treatment Options
Occlusal Splints
For those who grind or clench their teeth, we can create an occlusal splint—a custom-fitted device that protects your teeth from damage. This splint is designed to fit comfortably over your teeth, reducing the wear and tear caused by grinding and helping to alleviate jaw pain associated with clenching.
3D Printed and Customised for You
Both our occlusal splints and mandibular advancement splints are 3D printed in-house, allowing us to create precise, custom-fitted devices tailored to your individual dental anatomy. This technology is designed to support a comfortable fit and may assist in achieving treatment outcomes. Additionally, adjustments to your appliance can be made as needed, helping maintain its fit and function over time.
Mandibular Advancement Splints (MADs)
In cases where sleep apnoea is present, we may recommend a mandibular advancement splint (MAD). This device is designed to hold your lower jaw (mandible) in a forward position during sleep, helping to keep your airway open and reduce the occurrence of apnoea events. Mandibular advancement splints (MADs) may be a suitable option for some patients who are unable to tolerate CPAP therapy, and may be considered as an alternative treatment depending on individual circumstances. These devices are particularly beneficial for individuals with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea.
Get Started on Better Sleep
If you suspect you may have sleep apnoea or experience teeth grinding or clenching, contact us to arrange a consultation. We will work with you to assess your condition and discuss treatment options that may be appropriate for your individual needs.
Risks, Side Effects and Limitations of Oral Appliances
Oral appliances, including occlusal splints and mandibular advancement splints (MADs), may be suitable for some patients, depending on their individual condition and diagnosis.
Some potential considerations include:
- An adjustment period when first wearing the appliance
- Mild discomfort in the teeth, jaw, or facial muscles
- Dry mouth or excess saliva
- Temporary changes in bite or jaw position
- The need for ongoing adjustments to improve fit and comfort
- Not all patients will achieve the same level of symptom improvement
Mandibular advancement splints are generally recommended for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea and may not be suitable for all cases. In some situations, other treatments such as CPAP therapy may be more appropriate.
Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor your progress and ensure the appliance continues to fit correctly. Your dentist will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and limitations with you before starting treatment.