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Health & Wellness Solutions

Snoring And Sleep
Apnea Treatment

Orthodontic Solutions for Better Sleep and Health

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Understanding Sleep Apnea

What is Snoring and Sleep Apnea?

The main snoring cause is due to the partial closure of the airway during sleep. During sleep muscles in the neck relax and for some people the soft tissue in the upper throat vibrate, which makes the sound we know as snoring. Now you know about snoring do you know about Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?

Dr. Pacha specializes in orthodontic approaches to sleep apnea treatment, offering custom oral appliances and airway-focused orthodontic solutions that can help improve breathing and sleep quality.

Sleep Apnea Understanding

What is a Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS)?

The role of the MAS in the treatment of Snoring is widely recognised (SIGN guidelines, 2003) and works by posturing the lower jaw forward - keeping the airway open. Also known as Mandibular Advancement Appliances or Devices (MAA/MAD), these devices are a key product of ours and we are proud to be the exclusive providers of Sleepwell - the most clinically proven MAS for snoring and mild to moderate OSA (Barnes et al, 2004).

Introducing Sleepwell

Sleepwell Device

The Sleepwell is our key product for the treatment of Snoring and mild to moderate OSA and is an adjustable, two-piece device. Design benefits include:

  • Splint design allows lips to close around the device
  • Full lateral movement, reducing likelihood of dislocation
  • Patient can adjust up to 9mm to ensure the mandible is in the optimum position
  • May help to mitigate potential TMJ stress
  • Soft inner lining for patient comfort

To manufacture a Sleepwell appliance, all we need are upper and lower impressions. In most cases, a bite is not required.

Types of Sleep Apnea

1

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

The most common type, caused by physical blockage of the airway when throat muscles relax during sleep.

  • Blocked or narrowed airways
  • Loud snoring
  • Gasping during sleep
  • Treatable with oral appliances
2

Central Sleep Apnea

Less common type where the brain fails to send proper signals to muscles that control breathing.

  • Brain signal disruption
  • No snoring typically
  • Requires medical evaluation
  • May need combined treatment
3

Complex Sleep Apnea

Combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea, requiring comprehensive treatment approach.

  • Mixed type condition
  • Multiple treatment modalities
  • Requires specialist care
  • Coordinated treatment plan

Orthodontic Solutions For
Sleep Apnea And Snoring

1

Oral Appliance Therapy

Custom-made oral appliances that reposition the jaw and tongue to keep airways open during sleep.

  • Mandibular advancement devices
  • Tongue retaining devices
  • Custom-fitted for comfort
  • Portable and easy to use
  • Alternative to CPAP machines
2

Airway-Focused Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment designed to expand airways and improve breathing patterns.

  • Palatal expansion therapy
  • MARPE for adult airway expansion
  • Jaw repositioning treatment
  • Improved nasal breathing
  • Long-term airway stability
Read More

Sleepwell Results

Until the introduction of Mandibular Advancement Splints as a viable treatment option, the only solution for sufferers of OSA was Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). CPAP remains the 'gold standard' for sufferers of severe OSA, however lack of compliance is a major limitation – 20-50% discontinue use within a year.

A recent study into the efficacy of MAS appliances as a treatment alternative to CPAP showed a 96% compliance rate with MAS therapy – a stark contrast to CPAP compliance. To view the study in question, please see below.

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Other MAS Appliances

Dorsal Appliance

Dorsal

The Dorsal, also known as the 'fin dorsal fin appliance', is a low-profile appliance that is less prominent in the mouth than the traditional appliances, and is well suited to less severe cases.

Silensor Appliance

Silensor

The Silensor is a one-piece adjustable MAS, where the upper and lower parts are connected using elastic connectors. It can be adjusted up to 10mm to ensure the patient's jaw is positioned correctly.

Nexus Appliance

Nexus

The Nexus is a one-piece, non-adjustable, two-layer that can be fabricated in various fixed jaw positions. The appliance is flexible with soft inner layer for exceptional jaw comfort.

Panthera Classic Appliance

Panthera Classic

The Panthera Classic is an easy, one-piece solution, which is not adjustable and is made from medical grade nylon material. The device offers patients exceptional patient comfort.

Panthera X3 Appliance

Panthera X3

Similar concept to the dorsal, a feature of mid-line pushes jaw forward, created for extreme comfort as mid-line offers better posterior contact versus PMU connectors.

Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment

1

Better Sleep Quality

Uninterrupted sleep leads to feeling more rested and energized

2

Improved Heart Health

Reduced risk of cardiovascular complications and high blood pressure

3

Enhanced Mental Function

Better concentration, memory, and cognitive performance

4

Increased Energy

Reduced daytime fatigue and improved overall vitality

5

Better Relationships

Reduced snoring improves sleep for partners and family

6

Improved Quality of Life

Enhanced mood, productivity, and overall well-being

Treatment Process For Snoring

1

Comprehensive Assessment

Detailed evaluation of sleep patterns, airway anatomy, and medical history

2

Sleep Study Coordination

Collaboration with sleep specialists for proper diagnosis and monitoring

3

Custom Treatment Plan

Personalized approach using oral appliances or orthodontic solutions

4

Ongoing Monitoring

Regular follow-ups to ensure treatment effectiveness and comfort

Snorting And Sleep Apnea
Risk Factors & Symptoms

Common Risk Factors:

  • Excess weight or obesity
  • Thick neck circumference
  • Narrowed airway
  • Being male
  • Older age
  • Family history
  • Use of alcohol or sedatives
  • Smoking
  • Nasal congestion

Warning Signs & Symptoms:

  • Loud snoring
  • Episodes of breathing cessation
  • Gasping for air during sleep
  • Morning headaches
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Mood changes or irritability
  • High blood pressure
  • Night sweats

Oral Appliance Care Instructions

Daily Care:

  • Rinse appliance with cool water before and after use
  • Brush gently with soft toothbrush and mild soap
  • Use denture cleaning tablets weekly
  • Store in ventilated case when not wearing
  • Keep away from heat and pets

Important Tips:

  • Wear consistently for best results
  • Report any jaw discomfort immediately
  • Never use hot water (can warp appliance)
  • Bring to all follow-up appointments
  • Replace as recommended by Dr. Pacha

Health Impact of Untreated Sleep Apnea

1

Cardiovascular Risks

Increased risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and irregular heartbeats

2

Metabolic Complications

Higher risk of type 2 diabetes and difficulty maintaining healthy weight

3

Mental Health Impact

Increased risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment

4

Safety Concerns

Daytime sleepiness increases risk of accidents while driving or operating machinery

Improve Your Sleep and Health

Discover orthodontic solutions for better sleep and breathing

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