We also have treatments to help with snoring and give you (and your partner) a peaceful night’s sleep.
WHAT IS OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNOEA (OSA)?
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a serious and lifelong medical condition that affects 750,000 Australians. Data released by Deloitte Access Economics in 2011 showed that the incidence of OSA increases as we get older.
OSA is a hidden condition that can affect sleep, health and quality of life. It has been linked to hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, work- and driving-related accidents and stroke and it can have a serious impact on a person’s quality of life, work, education and relationships.
WHAT CAUSES OSA?
During sleep, muscles relax, including those that control the tongue and throat. The soft tissue at the back of throat can sag, narrowing and constricting the airway.
The symptoms can vary from snoring to excessive daytime sleepiness, pauses in breathing or teeth grinding while sleeping.
NORMAL AIRWAY
NARROWED AIRWAY
OBSTRUCTED AIRWAY
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR OSA?
Devices in the SomnoDent® family of products treat OSA by stabilizing and/or moving the lower jaw slightly forward. This optimal positioning of the jaw prevents the patient’s airway from collapsing during sleep.
Your doctor and/or dentist will make the decision on which treatment type is right for you and that often depends on the severity of your obstructive sleep apnoea. One type of treatment is the use of a Somnodent device such as continuous open airway therapy (COAT).
COAT™ — Continuous open-airway therapy
Worn during sleep, continuous open airway therapy (COAT) is a first-line treatment option for people with mild to moderate OSA and consists of devices with two components that fit over the upper and lower teeth.
These oral devices are comfortable and simple for patients to use which is why many patients prefer COAT therapy to other options. COAT is also a viable option for those who do not respond well to other treatment options.
WHO PRESCRIBES COATS?
A sleep physician will diagnose you with OSA and determine the most effective treatment option for you.
After the physician prescribes COAT therapy, a qualified sleep dentist will conduct a thorough oral exam to confirm your oral health status, as well as ensure you are dentally appropriate for the device.
Dental impressions and a bite registration are required to fabricate the SomnoDent. These items are then sent to SomnoMed where the device is made.
Once customized for you, the device will be fitted by the dentist, who will instruct you on how to insert and remove it, including how to clean and take care of it.
We're here to help! If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Our friendly team is ready to assist you and provide the information you need. Fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. Your oral health is our priority, and we look forward to serving you.
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Sydney Dental Clinics Bondi Junction 3/ 79-85 Oxford Steet Bondi Junction NSW 2022
Sydney Dental Clinic Blacktown 67-73 Main Street, Blacktown NSW 2148