Identifying the Appropriate Therapeutic Position of an Oral Appliance

Patient Guideline Summary

Publication Date: July 1, 2020

Last Updated: March 3, 2023

Objective

This patient summary means to discuss key recommendations from the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) for the appropriate therapeutic position of an oral appliance. It is limited to adults 18 years of age and older and should not be used as a reference for children.

Overview

Sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBDs) including sleep apnea (not breathing) can cause mood changes.
There are several causes of disturbed sleep.
- One common cause of SRBDs is interrupted breathing due to obstruction of the upper airway.
Symptoms include snoring, restless sleep, gasping, and spells of not breathing that interrupt sleep and cause excessive daytime sleepiness and decreased mental function. It can result in depression, irritability, high blood pressure, and decreased heart function.
This patient summary focuses on positioning oral devices that keep the upper airway open.

Diagnosis

Testing options include:
- Pulse Oximetry using a fingertip device that measures the oxygen in the blood.
- Home Sleep Apnea that measures airflow, pulse oximetry, and breathing effort while asleep.
- Polysomnogram that monitors brain waves, oximetry, heart rate, breathing, and eye and leg movements during sleep.

Treatment

Once the obstruction is identified as the cause of disturbed sleep, a dentist will fit a device that moves the jaw forward, enlarging the upper airway.
Changing sleeping position may also reduce apnea episodes.
Repeated testing may be required to adjust the device for the best result.

Abbreviations

AADSM: Academy Of Dental Sleep Medicine
SRBDs: Sleep-related Breathing Disorders

Source Citation

Sheats R, Essick G, Grosdidier J, Katz S, Kim C, Levine M, Patel I. Identifying the appropriate therapeutic position of an oral appliance. J Dent Sleep Med. 2020;7(4).

Disclaimer

The information in this patient summary should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.