• Documentation of symptoms, sleep diagnosis, and a review of health history
• Clinical examination of the TMJ and muscles of mastication, oropharyngeal and soft tissue examination, and examination of the teeth and occlusion
• Pictures, dental impressions, and imaging (such as panoramic radiographs)
• Discussion of the treatment options including the type of OSA Appliance Therapy
• Planning follow-up visits

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep-related breathing disorder. In individuals with OSA, muscles relax during sleep causing the soft tissue to collapse and block the upper airway. This results in decreased airflow to the lungs, oxygen desaturation, and sleep fragmentation. OSA is a life-threatening condition. Untreated OSA leads to an increased risk of serious health complications including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke, diabetes, obesity, chronic acid reflux, and motor vehicle accidents.

• Morning headaches
• Loud snoring, choking, or gasping sounds during sleep (often reported by the bed partner)
• Frequent arousals or awakenings from sleep
• Excessive day time sleepiness and fatigue
• Inability to concentrate

The diagnostic work up of OSA requires a through medical history and an overnight Polysomnography Study (PSG) at a sleep clinic.

There are many types of Oral Appliances. These appliances usually fit over both the upper and the lower teeth. The appliance maintains the lower jaw in a forward position. This increases the pharyngeal airway space and reduces the collapse of the upper airway.

OSA Appliance Therapy may be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as CPAP, oropharyngeal and jaw surgery, positional therapy, myofunctional therapy, and behavioral modification. The appliance is often used together with a CPAP to boost its effectiveness and/or compliance.

OSA Oral Appliance therapy is indicated for:

• Primary snoring,
• Mild-to-moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea,
• Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea where CPAP is intolerable
• Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome