1. CPAP (Continuous Positive Air Pressure) - Ideal for severe sleep apnea
2. Surgery
3. Oral Appliances - Ideal for mild to moderate sleep apnea
- UPPP (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty) - The surgical removal of excess tissue in the area of the soft palate and uvula.
- LAUP (Laser Assisted Uvuloplasty) - More conservative removal of excess palatal tissue and part of the uvula using a laser.
Prior to treatment, all patients should have an overnight sleep study completed in a sleep clinic (polysomnogram) and an ambulatory overnight sleep study done in their home. At the end of treatment, the polysomnogram and overnight home sleep study must be done to confirm that the treatment was successful in not only eliminating the snoring but also the sleep apnea.
Diagnosing Sleep Apnea
Rhinometer
Designed to diagnose any obstruction in the nasal cavity. Shows exactly where the obstruction occurs.
Watch-PAT100
Ambulatory overnight sleep study to help diagnose sleep apnea.
Pharyngometer
Designed to diagnose any obstruction in the pharyngeal airway.
Appliances
Somnomed
The Somnomed Appliance is one of the most popular appliances today. Extremely durable and can be adjusted anteriorly and vertically.
Silent Nite
This appliance is ideal for mandibular advancement. It is contraindicated for bruxism.
Snore Guard
The Snore Guard is a one piece appliance that cannot be adjusted. It is a good temporary appliance.
Adjustable PM Positioner
The Adjustable PM Positioner is a mandibular advancement appliance.
Klearway Oral Appliance
Klearway can be adjusted to move the mandible forward in small increments.
The Silencer System
The Silencer appliance can be adjusted vertically and anteriorly.
Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP)
The TAP appliance can be adjusted to move the mandible forward gradually.
Dorsal Appliance
The Dorsal Appliance is a durable two piece appliance that prevents the mandible from falling back at night.
