THE CHALLENGES OF MANDIBULAR ADVANCEMENT DEVICES - A NEW DESIGN ADJUSTABLE DENTAL APPLIANCE FOR THE TREATMENT OF OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA

Introduction: Obstructive Sleep Apnea is one of the prevalent breathing sleep disorders, especially among the elderly population of the modern world. Obstructive sleep apnea is defined as the occurrence of five or more episodes of complete or partial upper airway obstructions per hour during sleep. Over the years, we have seen many different appliances that target treating patients with apnea syndrome.The result is that they all seem to deal with the problem at hand on a scale from mild to moderate OSA. Aim: The goal we set was to create a new design ofan adjustable dental appliance which will help patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Materials and Methods: Impressions of the mandible and maxilla were obtained to create the specific dental appliance. The special design of the appliance includes an adjustable metal bar that is placed frontally to the anterior upper teeth and can be adjusted to the different levels of mandibular advancement.Adam's clasps have been affixed to the first lower molars, and two occlusal splints to the occlusal surfaces of all lower teeth in order to secure the device in place. To prevent mouth opening during sleep, two barriers have been built into the vestibular surfaces of the upper premolars and molars. Conclusion: With the help of this innovative appliance design, dental professionals may now properly position and make necessary corrections in patients who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.