Dr. Virginie Héry, a dentist in Paris 16th, explains snoring and sleep apnea.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (O.S.A)
This is a severe form of snoring that has evolved, especially with age or weight gain. It is characterized by breathing pauses followed by loud snoring. Many problems we experience during the day, such as fatigue, drowsiness, hypertension, and stroke, are related to sleep breathing disorders.
Patient management
Effective patient management requires collaboration between sleep specialists, respiratory pathologists, ear, nose, and throat (O.R.L) specialists, as well as maxillofacial experts. Often, it involves at least two professionals:
- The physician who monitors the patient for their sleep breathing disorder will initiate the prescription of orthodontic treatment and monitor its effectiveness.
- The dental specialist will confirm the prescription and provide the patient with a mandibular advancement device.
Mandibular advancement device
A mandibular advancement device is a medical device that maintains the lower jaw in an advanced position during sleep. This mechanical advancement opens the airway at the pharynx level and reduces the obstruction phenomenon. The oral surgeon plays a crucial role in patient management.
The oral surgeon will:
- Confirm that the patient is suitable for wearing a device and take impressions.
- Ensure the placement of the device.
- Provide patient follow-up and potentially adjust the mandibular advancement setting.
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