|
An oral appliance consists of two
trays, which fit over the upper and lower teeth. A hook mechanism
attached to the upper tray mates with a ridge in the lower tray and
allows the lower jaw to be positioned forward, thereby preventing
the soft tissue of the throat and tongue from collapsing over the
airway.
How Do These Devices Work to
Prevent Snoring?
Snoring and sleep apnea occur when,
while asleep, the tissues in the back of your throat close up your
airway. As you breathe, a vibration occurs in the tissues of the
throat that produces the snoring noise. The main culprits are the
soft palate and the tongue. Dental appliances work by pulling the
jaw and tongue forward in order to open up the air passage.
Unfortunately, however many patients dont use their appliance or
complain of constant pain in the jaw joint or dryness in their
mouth.
|