From Rockland County Sleep Dentist, Dr. Mark Dunayer
Because the cause of sleep apnea differs from one patient to the next, there is more than one type of sleep apnea device available. Some have obstructive sleep apnea while others have central or complex sleep apnea. Some sleep apnea patients have underlying conditions that make certain devices more desirable than others. Only a sleep dentist such as Dr. Dunayer will be able to help you decide which sleep apnea device is best for you.
Certain factors have to be kept in mind when it comes to choosing a sleep apnea device. Things such as underlying dental problems such as TMJ and bruxism, the size of your mouth, tongue and jaw, the type of sleep apnea you have, the severity of the condition, and other factors must all be taken into consideration before selecting a sleep apnea device. This is why it is truly important to work with a sleep dentist to get the device that is best for you.
Below are some of the most commonly used sleep apnea devices. Each of these devices is different from the next though the purpose of each of them is to ensure that sleep apneics are able to breathe properly while they sleep.
 SomnoMed – The SomnoDent by SomnoMed is suitable for sleep apneics with a large upper arch in their mouth. The SomnoDent is highly durable and can be used by those who have bruxism or clenching problems while sleeping. It is one of the most popular sleep apnea devices because of its versatility. |
 TAP® 3 – TThe TAP3 is often compared to the SomnoDent but is much smaller and yet more durable than other appliances of its size. The TAP3 is fully adjustable and is custom made to fit the shape of your mouth. It can be used to treat sleep apnea as well as snoring. |
 Silent Nite® – Created by Glidewell Laboratories, The Silent is Nite a custom-fabricated device that has been proven to prevent snoring. This device, however, is not meant to treat sleep apnea. |
 EMA® – By B & R Labs, the EMA custom oral appliance is used to treat sleep-related breathing disorders such as snoring and borderline sleep apneics. Its primary use is for the treatment of snoring. |
 Herbst – The Adjustable Herbst can be worn at night to increase the posterior, anterior, and vertical position of the mouth. It is a slim device that is praised for its slim design. The Herbst was originally created as an orthodontic device. |
 TRD – The TRD (and its brother the TSD -Tongue Stabilization Device) is a great treatment method for sleep apneics who suffer from an imbalance within their TMJ. The TRD manipulates the tongue and is suitable for those with a larger tongue that can cause blockage. The TRD is also ideal for some endentulous patients (patients with no remaining teeth). |
 TAP®-PAP – The TAP PAP is a device meant to treat sleep apnea. It is the only appliance of its kind, combining both oral sleep appliance technologies along with CPAP technology to ensure sleep apneics are safe at night. The device is very similar to the CPAP with the exception that instead of a mask, patients wear an oral device which is much more comfortable.
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Need A Sleep Apnea Device? We Can Help
If you have questions about a sleep apnea appliance or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dunayer, don’t hesitate to contact us. We always welcome new patients! Call our office at (845)-262-2265 or contact us online to get the answers you need or to set up an appointment.
