Editor’s intro: Next generation precision OAT devices utilizing the ProSomnus platform address clinicians’ top concerns of efficacy, comfort, and side effects — and have been specifically engineered to address these issues.
by Mark T. Murphy, DDS
Sleep physicians have a reluctance to prescribe Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT). A recent survey1 indicated three of their top concerns were: Efficacy, Comfort and Side Effects. OAT device selection should address these concerns. In fact, some next generation OAT devices, such as ProSomnus® Sleep Technologies devices, have been specifically engineered to address them. Gone are the days when we had to settle for lower efficacy, universal discomfort, and unavoidable side effects. Let’s review these innovations.
Efficacy
According to a review of 42 papers included in the AADSM guidelines and numerous scientific studies published since, OAT efficacy has been improving since 1995 from under 50% to nearly 70% recently. Why? The function of an OAT device is to “protrude and help stabilize the mandible.”2 Clinical practice, in vitro tests, and scientific studies demonstrate that next generation, precision, OAT devices are better at performing this function.
Comfort and Compliance
The material advantages of next generation precision OAT devices do more than provide a smaller lower profile platform that patients prefer, it also is much easier to clean and does not ‘gunk’ up. The dense control cured PMMA allows more tongue space which can mean less advancement and a considerable reduction in volume. Studies using sensors demonstrate comparable to better Mean Disease Alleviation and overall adherence than CPAP.
Side Effects
Again, technology and innovation advances solutions. The precision fit is designed to mitigate tooth movement as was demonstrated in a recent JDSM3 article utilizing the ProSomnus platform. Preventing a posterior open bite and occlusal changes can be enhanced through the use of the propriety CAD/CAM Morning Occlusal Guide available as well.
Innovative engineering, materials, precision manufacturing and a company dedicated to helping you, your patients and referring physicians thrive in Sleep Medicine…“Better OSA Therapy; By Design”.
Studies have shown that use of ProSomnus next generation precision OAT devices may be able to avoid the tooth mobility side effect. Read about the study here.
Mark T. Murphy, DDS, has practiced in the Rochester area for over 35 years He is the Lead Faculty for Clinical Education at ProSomnus Sleep Technologies, Principal of Funktional Sleep, serves on the Guest Faculty at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry and as a Regular Presenter at the Pankey Institute. He has served on the Boards of Directors of the Pankey Institute, National Association of Dental Laboratories, the Identalloy Council, the Foundation for Dental Laboratory Technology, St. Vincent DePaul’s Dental Center and the Dental Advisor. He lectures internationally on Leadership, Dental Sleep Medicine, TMD, Treatment Planning, and Occlusion.
- ”Oral Appliance Therapy Awareness and Perceptions Survey” By Sree Roy. Sleep Review. January 2016.
- Scherr SC, Dort LC, Almeida FR, Bennett KM, Blumenstock NT, Demko BG, Essick GK, Katz SG, McLornan PM, Phillips KS, Prehn RS, Rogers RR, Schell TG, Sheats RD, Sreshta FP. Definition of an effective oral appliance for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and snoring: a report of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Journal of Dental Sleep Medicine 2014;1(1):39–50.
- “Assessment of Potential Tooth Movement and Bite Changes with a Hard-Acrylic Sleep Appliance: A 2-Year Clinical Study” Journal of Dental Sleep Medicine: Vol. 6, No.2 2019.
- ”Oral Appliance Therapy Awareness and Perceptions Survey” By Sree Roy. Sleep Review. January 2016.
- Scherr SC, Dort LC, Almeida FR, Bennett KM, Blumenstock NT, Demko BG, Essick GK, Katz SG, McLornan PM, Phillips KS, Prehn RS, Rogers RR, Schell TG, Sheats RD, Sreshta FP. Definition of an effective oral appliance for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and snoring: a report of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Journal of Dental Sleep Medicine 2014;1(1):39–50.
- “Assessment of Potential Tooth Movement and Bite Changes with a Hard-Acrylic Sleep Appliance: A 2-Year Clinical Study” Journal of Dental Sleep Medicine: Vol. 6, No.2 2019.
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