Oral appliances have been used by dentists for several decades to treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Although these devices are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, most have undergone only sparse clinical testing for efficacy and safety. Most otolaryngologists are not well-versed in their applicability as treatment options. This review summarizes the historical development of oral appliances, the types of available devices, the current literature regarding devices, and pertinent regulatory issues as they relate to the ongoing debate over appliance use and potential misuse.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
. RobinP. Glossoptosis due to atresia and hypotrophy of the mandible. Am J Dis Child1934; 48: 541–7.
2.
. BarshLI. Responsibilities of the dental profession in recognizing and treating sleep breathing disorders. Compend Contin Educ Dent1996; 17: 490–500.
3.
. o'sullivanRAHillmanDRMateljanR, Mandibular advancement splint: an appliance to treat snoring and sleep apnea. Am J Respir Crit Care Med1995; 151: 194–8.
4.
. Schmidt-NowaraWLoweAWiegandL, Oral appliances for the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea: a review. Sleep1995; 18: 501–10.
5.
. MennSJLoubeDIMorganTD, The mandibular repositioning device: role in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep1996; 19: 794–800.
6.
. MeuriceJCDorePPaquereauJ, Predictive factors of long-term nasal continuous positive airway pressure treatment in sleep apnea syndrome. Chest1994; 105: 429–33.
7.
. Schmidt-NowaraWMeadeTEHaysMB. “Treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea with a dental orthosis.” Chest1991; 99: 1378–85.
8.
. StraussAM. Oral devices for the management of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. In: FairbanksDNFFujitaS, editors. Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. 2nd ed.New York: Raven Press; 1994. p. 229–41.
9.
. Practice parameters for the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea with oral appliances: an American Sleep Disorders Association Report. Sleep1995; 18: 511–3.
10.
. Improving patient care by reporting problems with medical devices: a MEDWATCH continuing education article. Rockville (MD): FDA, Department of Health and Human Services Publication; 1997. p. 1–12.
