There are numerous dental or oral appliances to treat snoring and mild OSA. They generally are either mandibular repositioners or tongue devices. They are usually constructed from a model of a patient’s mouth, although “one size fits all” appliances (so called mouth guards) are also available. The fitting is usually done by your dentist. Mandibular repositioning devices advance the lower jaw about 5-6 mm, thus increasing space in the upper airway and also increasing muscle tone. Tongue devices on the other hand prevent the tongue from falling against the soft palate during sleep.
Mandibular Repositioner |
![]() Tongue Device |
The most common side effects are excessive salivation, but also the opposite, dry mouth. Other side effects include sore teeth and soft tissue irritation. They are not recommended if the patient cannot breathe freely through his nose, since they make it harder to breathe through the mouth.
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