Snoring is extremely common and can be disruptive, affecting both the quality of sleep of the person who snores and their partner. While occasional snoring is usually harmless, persistent or loud snoring can sometimes be associated with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
OSA is a condition where the airway repeatedly narrows or becomes blocked during sleep, causing interruptions to normal breathing. This can result in fragmented, poor-quality sleep and may leave you feeling tired or unrefreshed during the day.
Untreated OSA is also associated with an increased risk of health problems including high blood pressure (hypertension), stroke, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
At AMR Dental in Margaret River, we can help assess and manage snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea.
Our assessment usually begins with an at-home sleep study. The results are reviewed by a sleep physician, who can assess the severity of any sleep apnoea and provide recommendations regarding appropriate treatment.
Depending on the results of your sleep study and the recommendations of the sleep physician, a mandibular advancement splint (MAS) may be an appropriate treatment option.
A mandibular advancement splint is a custom-made oral appliance worn during sleep. It gently holds the lower jaw in a forward position, helping to keep the airway open.
Mandibular advancement splints are well researched and can be an effective treatment for snoring and some cases of obstructive sleep apnoea. They may also be an alternative to CPAP for some patients with OSA, depending on the severity of their condition and the recommendations of their sleep physician.
Treatment aims to improve sleep quality and daytime symptoms, reduce disruption to sleep partners and improve overall quality of life.
If CPAP is considered more appropriate for you, we can also assist with the appropriate referral.
CPAP remains the gold-standard treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea. However, there are a number of reasons why a mandibular advancement splint may be preferred or considered appropriate for some patients.
Some patients try CPAP but find the mask or machine difficult to tolerate. A mandibular advancement splint is small, unobtrusive and worn inside the mouth, making it a comfortable alternative for some patients.
Because oral appliances are generally less obtrusive and easier to use, some patients find them easier to wear consistently throughout the night. Consistent use is an important part of any successful sleep apnoea treatment.
Mandibular advancement splints are small, lightweight and do not require electricity. This makes them particularly convenient for people who travel regularly, go camping or work FIFO.
Unlike CPAP machines, mandibular advancement splints operate silently, which can help minimise disruption to your partner.
For some patients with mild to moderate OSA, a mandibular advancement splint may provide an effective treatment option without the need for CPAP. The most appropriate treatment will depend on your sleep study results, your sleep physician’s recommendations and your individual circumstances and preferences.
Our sleep studies use the WatchPAT ONE, an unobtrusive home sleep testing device.
The device is mailed directly to your home, allowing you to complete the study in the comfort of your own bed. You simply follow the instructions provided to complete the test overnight.
Once your study is complete, the results are uploaded for assessment. The device is disposable, so there is no need to clean or return it.
Your sleep study includes reporting by a sleep physician — a medical doctor specialising in sleep medicine. A telehealth consultation with the sleep physician is also available if required.
If you have already completed a sleep study, you are welcome to bring a copy of your results to your appointment.
If you or your partner are concerned about snoring, excessive daytime tiredness or possible sleep apnoea, we’d be happy to discuss your options.
Book a consultation or dental examination with Dr Tom Jardine at AMR Dental to discuss whether an at-home sleep study and mandibular advancement splint may be suitable for you.