Elsevier

Dental Abstracts

Volume 59, Issue 4, July–August 2014, Pages 205-207
Dental Abstracts

Hands On
Oral appliance therapy

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.denabs.2013.12.021Get rights and content

Section snippets

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a complex disease that can produce problems in the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, cognitive dysfunction, and other comorbidities. Oral appliance (OA) therapy is a routine treatment for OSA that has proved both safe and effective. Dentistry can play an important role in increasing the lifespan of persons with OSA through treatment methods such as OA therapy, which can help to address the craniofacial abnormalities and neuromuscular factors causing OSA. The

Methods

Efficacy was measured using polysomnography (PSG) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). The diagnosis of OSA or primary snoring was verified using the PSG before treatment, then the test was repeated 6 months later to determine the efficacy of MRA treatment with the PM positioner. Subjective daytime sleepiness was evaluated using the ESS questionnaire before treatment and at follow-up. Patients were evaluated and compared in two groups: those with primary snoring and those with OSA of varying

Results

Sixty-three patients (mean age 48.0 years, range 32 to 74 years) completed the study. The OA was used a mean of 7.2 months, with a range of 6 to 9 months. Comorbid conditions were present in 45.5% of patients with mild OSA, 22.0% of patients with moderate OSA, and 70% of patients with severe OSA. The primary snoring group, which consisted of two women and five men, experienced no significant differences in PSG variables between the two evaluations, although they reported a decrease in snoring,

Discussion

The PM positioner was effective for patients who suffered from snoring and OSA. As a result of its use, patients experienced less daytime sleepiness and improved AHI and sleep parameters. Factors that may contribute to treatment success include anatomical considerations, tissue compliance, and neuromuscular factors. The design of the device and the material of which the PM positioner is made may also influence treatment outcomes.

Clinical Significance

The PM positioner can be used to treat

References (0)

Cited by (0)

Giannasi LC, Almeida FR, Nacif SR, et al: Efficacy of an oral appliance for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. Int J Prosthodont 26:334-339, 2013

Reprints available from LC Giannasi, Nove de Julho Univ Sleep Laboratory, R Esperança, 265, Sao José dos Campos, 2243700, SP, Brazil; e-mail: [email protected]

View full text