Do you know Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, is the most prevalent type of sleep disordered breathing among many people in Malaysia? This condition occurs when the upper airway becomes blocked or partially blocked during sleep, leading to frequent interruptions in breathing that could have serious health repercussions.
Dental management of obstructive sleep apnea requires collaboration between dentists and sleep specialists. The dental team should be educated in diagnosing and treating OSA, including when appropriate using oral appliance therapy.
Oral appliance therapy has proven successful for mild to moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). When combined with continuous positive airway pressure therapy, or CPAP therapy, in severe cases, oral appliances like mandibular advancement devices (MADs) or tongue-retaining mouthpieces become part of the OSA treatment plan.
Mask airway systems (MASs) increase the dimensions of the pharynx through protrusion of the lower jaw and decrease collapsibility in the upper airway during sleep, improving airflow for patients. They should only be prescribed by a sleep physician who is knowledgeable about oral device anatomy and physiology and who can evaluate each patient’s phenotype while asleep.
Titration of Mammary Atrophy Syndromes (MASs) requires repeating PSG studies while in the process and should be completed promptly if no response or perceived nonbenefit is reported. Furthermore, dental follow-ups are recommended at 2 to 4 weeks, then at 6, 12 and annually after the titration process has been completed.
Oral appliance therapy can improve sleep quality and prevent other issues like high blood pressure or heart disease from arising. It may also lower accident risks, reduce depression and anxiety levels.
Talk to your healthcare provider or The Air Station Malaysia for more information on sleep study, sleep apnea therapy based on your current sleep conditions.
