SLEEP APNEA

Sleep apnea is a serious, sometimes fatal medical disorder that affects around 10% of American men over the age of 40 and 6% of American women of the same age. 

Sleep apnea sufferers completely stop breathing during sleep, sometimes hundreds of times in a single night. Normal breathing ceases because the airway becomes obstructed, causing a serious reduction of airflow to the lungs.

Sleep Apnea Treatment:

We offer the TAP® 3 (Thornton Adjustable Positioner) dental device for our patients who suffer from sleep apnea. The TAP® 3 is the smallest, most comfortable device to help open up the airway, allowing oxygen to flow freely. 

It is a two-part, custom-created sleep apnea appliance that fits over the teeth in much the same way as a sports mouthguard. The TAP® 3 projects the jaw forward to prevent the tongue and soft tissues from impeding the airway. The lower jaw positioner is adjustable, which means it can be altered to suit the comfort level of the wearer. The TAP® 3 appliance can accommodate the three main types of malocclusion and allows the lips to fully close.

Wearers of sleep apnea dental devices report that they stop loud snoring, feel more rested in the daytime and are much more comfortable going to sleep. Sleep apnea appliances work best on patients who are not significantly overweight. They offer a viable alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP).

If you have questions or concerns about sleep apnea appliances, please ask your dentist.