What do mandibular advancement splints do?
Mandibular advancement splints (MAS) can be used to manage the effects of sleep apnoea.
Obstructive sleep apnoea is a common health concern that can have some serious implications. Some of the most common symptoms include snoring, chronic headaches, daytime fatigue and a dry mouth upon waking in the morning. If left untreated, the condition can lead to a number of other physical and mental health problems, Heart attack, Stroke, Hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, Dementia, Loss of cognitive function, increase risk of fatal single-vehicle motor vehicle accidents and work accidents, depression, anxiety, erectile dysfunction, and loss of libido, just to name a few. Fortunately, with the right care, the issue can be effectively managed. One of the most effective treatments for the condition is the use of a mandibular advancement splint (MAS). Read on to find out how these appliances work, and when to consider discussing the option with your dentist…
What do MAS appliances do?
MAS appliances are often recommended in cases of mild to moderate and even severe obstructive sleep apnoea because they can effectively reduce some of the symptoms of the condition. The appliances work by moving the jaw in to a better position during sleep. This, in turn, helps to expand the airway and improves one’s ability to breath. MAS appliances can also be helpful for individuals who snore, as well as those who grind their teeth while they sleep.
What does the process involve?
If you are a suitable candidate for a MAS appliance, your dentist will take an impression of your mouth. This impression will then be sent to a laboratory where your appliance will be custom-made for you. Because each appliance is custom-made, your MAS will fit comfortably and suit your teeth and jaw specifically. The process of having an impression taken generally takes around 30 minutes to complete. You can then expect to wait up to four weeks for your appliance to be fabricated. When your appliance is ready, you can come in to have it fitted and for any necessary adjustments to be made. The fitment appointment typically takes around 30 minutes.
Will it work for you?
We know that CPAP, which is one of the first-line treatments for OSA, has a high rate of intolerance and many abandon its use. While mandibular advancement splints are generally very effective in the treatment of sleep apnoea, the treatment that suits you best will depend on a number of factors. Some of the factors that your dentist is likely to consider before recommending a treatment for you include any other medical conditions you have, the severity of your symptoms, the structure of your upper airway, and your personal preference and lifestyle.
If you are suffering from obstructive sleep apnoea, you snore or grind your teeth, we encourage you to arrange an appointment with your dentist. They will recommend a treatment plan that is customised to your particular needs. The most important thing is that you address your health issue so that you can enjoy good quality sleep, improving your wellbeing.
How can we help?
At Future Dental, we have been working with patients with obstructive sleep apnoea for over 35 years and extensive research indicates that mandibular advancement splints (MAS) are among the most effective appliances in the management of the condition.
If you are suffering from obstructive sleep apnoea, we encourage you to come in for a consultation so that we can determine the best MAS appliance for you. We will then take an impression of your mouth, as well as protrusive bite registrations of your jaw so that a customised appliance can be made for you.
If you would like to find out more about the MAS appliances that we offer at Future Dental, please have a look here.
Besides treatments for snoring and sleep apnoea, we also offer a range of other treatments, including preventative, restorative, medical and cosmetic dentistry. We also offer orthodontic solutions to correct the position of the teeth and enhance the form and function of the smile. If you would like to find out more about the treatments that we offer, please have a look here.
If you would like to arrange a consultation, please give us a call on (07) 4051 4580 or get in touch with us here.