Sleep Apnea or OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome) is defined as the repetition of complete or partial obstructions during sleep. Without necessarily realizing it, the sleeper has brief awakenings and very frequent which lead to a decrease of the quality of the sleep.
The consequences are disorders such as daytime sleepiness (particularly dangerous for vehicle drivers), lack of energy, fatigue in the effort … Serious pathologies such as hypertension or cardiovascular disorders can also be related to sleep apnea
One of the treatments envisaged is the nocturnal wearing of a specific dental orthosis.
It is a medical device that is placed in the mouth for the night. The principle of the device is to maintain the lower jaw (mandible) in slightly advanced position to release the posterior respiratory tract. The increase of the passage of the air then allows a better ventilation. The device is usually composed of two small gutters resting totally or partially on the jaws of the top and bottom.
First, an evaluation of the dental arches, the jaw and the oral cavity is performed to verify that there are no contraindications. Then fingerprints are taken to determine the exact shape of the dentition and the relationship between the two jaws. Once the device is made, the progressive adjustments necessary for the proper adjustment of the device and your comfort are made, in relation if necessary with the sleep specialist.
An average of three appointments, 10-15 days apart, is expected for good care.
Some factors can cause or increase snoring and sleep apnea :
- consumption of substances such as alcohol, tobacco, sedatives …
- overweight
- position of the sleeper (sleeping rather on the side than on the back)