Although Obstructive Sleep Apnoea is generally associated with snoring, there are actually many signs and symptoms that are tied to the sleeping disorder, many of which occur as a result of disrupted sleep. Before delving into the causes and symptoms of OSA, and how dentists can help the condition, it is important to first define condition and its well-documented effects.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)?
A potentially dangerous sleeping disorder, Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) causes the sufferer’s breathing to be interrupted by repeated pauses during sleep.
OSA is one of two categories of the sleep apnoea condition, the other being Central Sleep Apnoea (CSA). While the latter sleeping disorder is usually caused by medical conditions – that disrupts the patient’s neurological ability to guide the breathing-related muscles – Obstructive Sleep Apnoea is caused by complete or partial blockage of the airways during sleep.
Accounting for 90 – 96% of all sleep apnoeas, Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (or Obstructive Sleep Apnea) is the more common type. The condition can be assessed and determined by studying the results from an overnight sleep study, also known as a Polysomnograph.
Sleep apnoea is a potentially serious disorder that causes the sufferer’s breathing to be interrupted by repeated pauses during sleep. An apnoea, which literally translates as “without breath”, refers to completely obstructed breathing. In clinical terms, sleep apnoea is the condition that causes the sufferer’s airflow to be reduced for about 10 seconds or more.
Although Obstructive Sleep Apnoea and Central Sleep Apnoea can both cause serious health issues, the Dental Appliance Solution can only treat OSA. Left untreated, OSA can lead to significant health issues including High Blood Pressure, Stroke, Diabetes, Excessive Daytime Fatigue (that can result in motoring accidents).
What Can a Dentist Do to Help with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
If your sleep physician has recommended Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) as a suitable treatment option, Molonglo Dental Surgery is equipped with the right expertise, experience and dental solutions to help with your OSA condition.
Mandibular Advancement Splint/Device (MAS/MAD
We offer an extensive range of anti-snoring solutions including the popular Mandibular Advancement Splint/Device (MAS/MAD).
The splint is worn on the teeth – similar to wearing a mouth guard – during sleep. The Mandibular Advancement Device helps to prevent the soft tissue from blocking the airway and hindering normal breathing patterns.
Offering a painless and non-invasive treatment for OSA, the TGA-approved oral device is extremely safe with proven effectiveness in the treatment of mild to moderate OSA, in addition to reducing the intensity and frequency of snores.
Did you know that you can treat Obstructive Sleep Apnoea with a Quality, Custom-fitted Dental Appliance?
For more information on our Oral Appliance Therapy for OSA treatment, book an appointment with our Friendly Dentist in Molonglo Valley, contact Molonglo Dental Surgery at 02 6287 1222.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Dentists recommend custom-fitted oral appliances which are widely recognised as a first-line treatment for individuals experiencing mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). These devices are referred to as mandibular advancement splints (MAS) or mandibular advancement devices (MAD). They are designed by dentists to gently reposition the lower jaw during sleep. This helps to keep the airway open, reducing interruptions to breathing and improving overall sleep quality. While severe cases may require other forms of treatment (such as CPAP therapy), dental solutions offer a non-invasive and highly effective alternative for many patients.
There is a fundamental difference between snoring and sleep apnoea, although many people use the two terms interchangeably. Snoring refers to the sound produced when air flows past relaxed tissues in the throat during sleep. Apart from nocturnal disturbance it sometimes causes, it does not necessarily represent a medical issue. Sleep apnoea, on the other hand, involves repeated pauses in breathing – lasting up to several seconds per pause. This is a sleep disorder that can significantly lower oxygen levels and fragment sleep. Left untreated, these interruptions can lead to daytime fatigue, concentration problems, and long-term health risks.
Depending on the complexity of the case and the materials used, the cost of a custom sleep apnoea mouthguard ranges from $2,000 to $3,500.
CPAP machines, long considered the gold standard for Severe OSA, uses continuous air pressure to keep the airway open. For mild to moderate cases of OSA, mandibular advancement splints (MAS) are often preferred due to their comfort and higher compliance rates. By comparison, MAS devices are discreet, portable, and don’t require electricity to run the equipment. Your sleep specialist can help determine the best option based on your diagnosis.
With proper care, a sleep apnoea appliance can last between 3 to 5 years. To prolong the lifespan of your mandibular advancement splints (MAS), regular cleaning and periodic adjustments by your dentist will be necessary. Over time, wear and tear or changes in your dental structure may necessitate a replacement.
Yes. You will require a diagnostic sleep study before commencing any treatment. Conducted at home or in a specialised clinic, the sleep study is designed to access your breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep cycles to confirm the presence and severity of sleep apnoea. Undergoing this study is required for your Medicare eligibility and health fund claims.
Most sleep apnoea appliances require adequate natural teeth for proper support and retention. Unfortunately, patients with full dentures may not be suitable candidates for MAS devices. Since the appliance relies on a stable anchor to function effectively, dentures are simply not up to the task. If you are a denture wearer, it may be worthwhile discussing your options with a dental professional, as alternative treatments may be available.
At Molonglo Dental Surgery, we take a collaborative approach to sleep apnoea treatment. We will work closely with your sleep physician to tailor a comprehensive care plan that suits your condition, preference and budget. Located right here in Molonglo Valley, we utilise state-of-the-art digital technology to design precise, comfortable appliances tailored to your needs. We are committed to providing effective solutions that help you breathe easier and sleep better.