Three-dimensional computer-assisted study model analysis of long-term oral-appliance wear. Part 2. Side effects of oral appliances in obstructive sleep apnea patients

Effect of mandibular advancement appliance use on oral and periodontal health in patients with OSA: a systematic review

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Use of a mandibular advancement appliance (MAA) is an effective treatment option for mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). MAA is well-tolerated but undesirable effects may be observed over time. The present systematic review aimed to assess the effect of MAA use on oral and periodontal health in patients with OSA.

METHODS

MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane, and Scopus were searched for randomized and non-randomized controlled trials (RCTs, NRCTs), cohorts, and case-control studies reporting on side effects of MAA treatment in OSA patients during a follow-up of at least 6 months.

RESULTS

From a total of 169 articles screened, 28 were selected. The most frequently reported MAA-related effects on oral health were: hypersalivation (weighted mean prevalence, 33.3%), occlusal changes (30.2%), muscle pain (22.9%), tooth discomfort or pain (20.2%), and xerostomia (18.3%). No MAA-related periodontal effect was reported. The periodontal status prior to MAA treatment was rarely assessed and described, but 5 studies (17.8%) stated that periodontitis was an exclusion criterion for MAA. Only one retrospective study specifically evaluated periodontal parameters and reported no significant changes in periodontally healthy patients with OSA using MAA for over 7 years.

CONCLUSION

MAA use is associated with a number of clinical consequences on oral health, but there is no evidence to conclude whether or not MAA affects periodontal health in patients with OSA. This aspect appears to be under-evaluated and should be further investigated in relation to the type of MAA, the duration of treatment, and prior history of periodontitis.

Objectively measured adherence may affect side effects of mandibular advancement therapy in subjects with obstructive sleep apnea

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine if objectively measured adherence to oral appliance (OA) treatment may affect dental changes and temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

METHODS

The original study group consisted of adults with OSA who were referred for OA therapy. Eight indicators of subjective side effects of using OA (temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and muscle pain, pain in teeth, jaw stiffness in the morning, clicking, dry mouth, hypersalivation, gingival irritation) were evaluated by a questionnaire. Three occlusal indicators (overjet, overbite, molar occlusion) and clinical TMD signs (TMJ pain, muscle pain, clicking, jaw deviation on opening) were evaluated at baseline and at the 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up. In addition, objective adherence monitoring for OA was registered. Statistical analyses included the chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, paired sample t-test, and linear regression analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 58 adults with OSA were referred for OA therapy. Mean (SD) age was 50.7 (11.7) and mean apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was 19.5 (10.0). At 1-year follow-up, the study group consisted of 28 men and 12 women. Overjet but not overbite reduced significantly after 1-year OA therapy. The average nightly wear of OA was related to overjet and overbite reduction, and to TMD signs. Hypersalivation, dry mouth, and tooth discomfort were the most common subjective side effects of OA therapy.

CONCLUSION

There was a time-dependent relationship with the nightly wear of OA and reduction in overjet and overbite, and clinical TMD signs. With 60% of mandibular advancement, dental changes and TM-disorders were considered mild/minor in the 1-year study period.

Focus of dental sleep medicine on obstructive sleep apnea in older adults: A narrative review

PURPOSE

To review dental sleep medicine in older adults based on the literature.

STUDY SELECTION

This narrative review focuses on sleep physiology, common sleep disorders, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in older adults and their management.

RESULTS

Sleep physiology differs between older and younger adults, with sleep disturbances occurring more frequently in older adults. The prevalence of insomnia increases in older adults due to age-related changes in sleep physiology. Insomnia, sleep-disordered breathing, periodic limb movement disorder, restless legs syndrome, and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder are common sleep disorders in older adults. OSA is more prevalent in older adults, and its effects on them are considered more substantial than those on younger adults. The treatment of older patients with mandibular advancement devices may be less effective and more complex owing to potential impairments in oral and dental health. Furthermore, the prevalence of edentulism in older adults is decreasing while life expectancy is increasing.

CONCLUSIONS

As older adults have comorbidities that affect sleep quality, dentists should consider the effects of sleep physiology and sleep disorders in these patients. OSA may decrease the quality of life and increase the risk of developing other diseases. Therefore, dentists proposing treatment with mandibular advancement devices need to inform patients of their potential lack of efficacy and the requirement for careful follow-up owing to known and unknown side effects.

Indications for Dental Specialists for Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea with Mandibular Advancement Devices: A Narrative Review

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome is characterized by repeated airway collapse during sleep. It determines cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurocognitive consequences and is associated with several daytime and nighttime symptoms that influence the patient's quality of life. The contribution of the dental specialist in the clinical management of OSA patients entails participating in the screening process as diagnostic sentinels and providing adequate treatment using mandibular advancement devices (MADs). Since the treatment of OSA requires a multidisciplinary approach, including different medical specialists, dentists should have a comprehensive understanding of medical and dental factors that influence the strategy and effectiveness of OSA treatment with MAD. Such expertise is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment indications and helps clinicians establish a consolidated position within the multidisciplinary OSA team. In this regard, this review summarizes the evidence of the clinical indications for MAD treatment and provides the dental specialist with helpful information about medical, functional, and other relevant factors that should be considered during diagnosis, treatment plan, and follow-up stages. Information retrieved was organized and discussed, generating specific domains/queries oriented to the clinical management of OSA patients from the clinical perspective of dental specialists.

Compliance and side effects of tongue stabilizing device in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long-term effectiveness, compliance, and side effects of tongue stabilizing devices (TSDs).

METHODS

Thirty-nine patients were followed up after 12 and 30 months. The subjective effectiveness was assessed using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the Functional Outcomes Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ-10), the Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFQ), and a sleep-related quality of life questionnaire (QoL). Compliance and side effects were assessed.

RESULTS

At 12-months, 35.9% of patients confirmed continuing the therapy, compared to only 15.4% of patients at 30 months. At 30 months, a significant average improvement of ESS (2.0 ± 2.8) was observed compared to baseline levels in six patients. Six patients demonstrated an average increase in blood pressure. The most frequently reported side effects were mouth dryness and excessive salivation. The 3D analysis revealed small tooth movements.

CONCLUSION

The TSD therapy demonstrated a good long-term subjective effectiveness against OSA but had a relatively low treatment acceptance rate.

Dental and Occlusal Changes during Mandibular Advancement Device Therapy in Japanese Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Four Years Follow-Up

Dentoskeletal changes caused by the long-term use of mandibular advancement devices (MADs) for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have rarely been investigated in Japan. We assessed the long-term dentofacial morphological changes in 15 Japanese patients with OSA who used two-piece MADs for an average of 4 years. Lateral cephalography analyses were performed initially and 4 years later (T1). The dental assessment included overjet, overbite, upper anterior facial height, lower anterior facial height (LAFH), total anterior facial height (TAFH), and anterior facial height ratio. Dental casts were digitized and analyzed using a 3D scanner. Changes in the apnea hypopnea index (AHI) and other sleep-assessment indices were assessed using polysomnography and out-of-center sleep testing. Radiography revealed lingual inclination of the maxillary central incisors, labial inclination of the mandibular central incisors, clockwise rotation of the mandible, and an increase in the TAFH and LAFH at T1. In the dental cast analysis, the diameter width and palatal depth tended to decrease and increase, respectively. There was a significant decrease in the AHI and other sleep assessment indices after using the MADs for approximately 4 years. However, these findings do not provide a strong basis and should be interpreted cautiously. Future studies should have a larger sample size and should further investigate the long-term occlusal and dental changes caused by the original MADs in Japanese patients with OSA.

Oral appliance-generated malocclusion traits during the long-term management of obstructive sleep apnea in adults

OBJECTIVES

To identify malocclusion characteristics generated after using oral appliances (OAs) for at least 5 years for the management of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, MEDLINE (Ovid), Scopus, CINAHL, and Informit were searched without language restrictions through January 20, 2021. Unpublished literature was searched on ClinicalTrials.gov, the National Research Register, and the Pro-Quest Dissertation Abstracts and Thesis database. Authors were contacted when necessary, and reference lists of the included studies were screened. Risk of bias was assessed through the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized controlled trials (RoB2) and Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions for non-RCTs and uncontrolled before-after studies (ROBINS-I). A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted only on studies that used the same OAs to exclude biomechanical differences. Risk of bias across studies was assessed with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation tool.

RESULTS

A total of 12 studies were included in the final qualitative synthesis. Eight included studies had high, one had moderate, and three had low risks of bias. Significant progressive decreases of overjet (OJ; -1.43 mm; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.66 to -1.20) and overbite (OB; -1.94 mm; 95% CI, -2.14 to -1.74) associated with maxillary incisor retroclination and mandibular incisor proclination were reported long term. Although most studies showed no sagittal skeletal changes, some degree of vertical skeletal changes were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on a very low evidence level, inevitable anterior teeth positional changes seem to be a common long-term adverse effect of OAs. The magnitude of those changes could be considered clinically irrelevant for most pretreatment occlusions, but in occlusions with limited OJ and OB, it may be worth clinical consideration.

A consideration of factors affecting palliative oral appliance effectiveness for obstructive sleep apnea: a scoping review

STUDY OBJECTIVES

This scoping review allows physicians, researchers, and others interested in obstructive sleep apnea to consider effectiveness of oral appliances (OAs). The intent is to improve understanding of OA effectiveness by considering morphologic interaction in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

METHODS

Morphologic and biomechanical criteria for positional alterations of the mandible assessed success rates of OA appliances. Searches of databases (Medline, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, EBSCO) using terms: OA treatment effectiveness and positive and/or negative outcome predictors. Craniofacial predictors of OAs and obstructive sleep apnea biomechanical factors of anatomical traits associated with OA effectiveness were included. Databases searched radiographic cephalometric imaging for morphology/phenotypes and apnea-hypopnea index responses. Articles were excluded if title or abstract was not relevant or a case report. If the analysis did not report mean or standard deviation for apnea-hypoxia index, it was excluded. No language, age, or sex restrictions were applied.

RESULTS

Analysis of 135 articles included in searched literature indicated alterations in musculature and pharyngeal airway structure through OA use. These alterations were individually unpredictable with wide variability 61.81% ± 12.29 (apnea-hypoxia index mean ± standard deviation). Morphologic variations as predictors were typically weak and idiosyncratic. Biomechanical factors and wide variations in the metrics of appliance application were unclear, identifying gaps in knowledge and practice of OAs.

CONCLUSIONS

An integrated basis to identify morphologic and biomechanical elements of phenotypic expressions of sleep-disordered breathing in the design and application of OAs is needed. Current knowledge is heterogeneous and shows high variability. Identification of subgroups of patients with obstructive sleep apnea responding to OAs is needed.

Avoiding and Managing Oral Appliance Therapy Side Effects

There is a serious need to consider all potential side effects thoughtfully before commencing individual treatment with oral appliance therapy. Although many of these side effects are self-limiting, easily corrected, or innocuous, others are difficult or impossible to correct and can affect the patient in serious ways. As this field evolves, new information is discovered, and new products are introduced at a rather rapid pace, continuing education and prudent practice are critical to ethical care in the practice of dental sleep medicine.

A combined orthodontic / orthognathic approach in the management of obstructive sleep apnoea: Balancing treatment efficacy and facial aesthetics

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a prevalent condition and has been extensively managed with orthognathic surgery using a variety of surgical techniques. This case report describes the successful management of a 56-year-old Caucasian woman with a bimaxillary retrusive profile and macroglossia complicated by OSA and the combined use of orthodontics and orthognathic surgery to improve Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index while maintaining facial aesthetics. The non-extraction treatment plan included: (1) pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to maximise aesthetics and functional occlusion after surgery; (2) maxillomandibular advancement using down fracture of the maxilla (Le Fort 1 osteotomy) with counter-clockwise rotation as well as bilateral sagittal split osteotomy with septoplasty to aid increase in airway function; and (3) post-surgical orthodontic finishing and alignment with self-ligating fixed appliances. Optimum aesthetic and functional results as well as an increase in the airway volume were achieved, without compromising facial aesthetics, with the cooperation of two specialties and the use of state-of-the-art technology during the surgical planning stages.

Oral Appliances in the Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a multifactorial condition, and an interdisciplinary approach to diagnosis forms the basis for effective treatment planning. Craniofacial structure and attached soft tissues and muscles play a central role in OSA. Evidence-based studies demonstrate the effectiveness of oral appliances for mandibular advancement and tongue stabilization in managing OSA, and current clinical standards of practice recommend the use of oral appliances to treat OSA when patients cannot tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Although effective, oral appliances are less predictable in managing OSA compared with CPAP therapy. Measures can be taken to improve predictability of oral appliance treatment.

Superimposition of 3D maxillary digital models using open-source software

Historically, whether for research purposes or clinical monitoring, orthodontic evaluation of dental movements has been done using plaster study models and two dimensional (2D) radiographs. However, new frontiers for the diagnosis, planning and outcome assessment of orthodontic treatments have arisen, due to the revolutionary digital tools which enable a three dimensional (3D) computerized analysis of dental movements by means of digital models. However, the software for 3D analysis are often costly, resulting in limited access to orthodontists. The present study aims to describe, through a clinical case presented to the Brazilian Board of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, a method for the superimposition of maxillary digital models using an open-source software to evaluate dental movements.

Subjective versus objective dental side effects from oral sleep apnea appliances

Purpose

Occlusal changes are common during long-term treatment with oral appliances (OAs) for sleep apnea. The aim of the present study was to compare subjectively reported bite changes with objective findings.

Methods

Consecutive adherent treated patients were asked to participate in this study. The patients responded to two questionnaires using numeric visual analogue scales (VAS), ranging from 0 (not at all) to 10 (very much). The first questionnaire included open questions and the second questionnaire comprised specific questions about side effects. Measurements of overjet, overbite, and space for the teeth were made on plaster casts taken before treatment start and at follow-up.

Results

Thirty-eight (12 women) patients with a median age of 64 years (interquartile range (IQR) 57 to 69 years) and a median treatment time of 9.5 years (IQR 5.8 to 14.3 years) were included. Overjet, overbite, the molar relationship, and the irregularity of the lower front teeth had changed significantly during treatment. There were no associations between any of the patients’ responses and the objectively measured bite changes. Younger patients, those with a small baseline overjet or overbite and those who developed an anterior crossbite were more likely to report bite changes.

Conclusions

Patients who choose to continue long-term treatment with oral appliances for sleep apnea are unaware of various types of bite changes. Such changes will, however, progressively increase in magnitude and be more difficult to take care of, if needed. It is therefore important continuously to follow up patients in regard to bite changes.

Long-term dental and skeletal effects of mandibular advancement devices in adults with obstructive sleep apnoea: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review aimed to clarify whether there are any significant long-term sequelae to wearing mandibular advancement devices focusing on dental and skeletal effects in adults with OSA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Databases, including PubMed, Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and SAGE Journals. Hand searches and grey literature were also used. A piloted data collection form was used to extract the appropriate data.

RESULTS

Twenty-three reports of 19 studies were included. Five had serious risk of bias while 18 had moderate risk of bias. Meta-analysis revealed a significant change in overbite and overjet. I-squared analysis showed a high level of statistical heterogeneity. A moderate correlation was found between wear time and amount of change.

CONCLUSION

Mandibular advancement devices will cause a small but statistically significant change in the dentition of long-term wearers. Skeletal changes are generally secondary to dental changes.

Oral Appliances in the Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a multifactorial condition, and an interdisciplinary approach to diagnosis forms the basis for effective treatment planning. Craniofacial structure and attached soft tissues and muscles play a central role in OSA. Evidence-based studies demonstrate the effectiveness of oral appliances for mandibular advancement and tongue stabilization in managing OSA, and current clinical standards of practice recommend the use of oral appliances to treat OSA when patients cannot tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Although effective, oral appliances are less predictable in managing OSA compared with CPAP therapy. Measures can be taken to improve predictability of oral appliance treatment.

Dentoskeletal effects of oral appliance wear in obstructive sleep apnoea and snoring patients

Objectives

To evaluate the dentoskeletal changes associated with long-term and continuous mandibular advancement device (MAD) use in sleep-related breathing disorder patients.

Methods

Cephalometric measurements and three-dimensional model analysis were performed at baseline and after 3.5 ± 1.1 years in 20 snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea patients treated with the Silensor® appliance. Intra-group differences were compared using paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test. A regression analysis was performed for variables that showed a statistically significant difference between time points to evaluate the influence of treatment time and patient's initial characteristics on their variations. The statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

At cephalometric assessment, the maxilla revealed a significant decrease in horizontal position (SNA: -0.4 ± 0.72 degree, P = 0.021) and a significant retroclination of the upper incisor (-1.59 ± 1.07 degree, P < 0.001), while the mandible displayed a significant downward rotation (0.88 ± 1.28 degree, P = 0.006) and a proclination of the lower incisor (2.27 ± 1.38 degree, P < 0.001). Model analysis showed a decrease in upper total space discrepancy (-0.66 ± 0.72 mm, P < 0.002), overjet (OJ; -0.34 ± 0.47 mm, P < 0.011), and overbite (-0.4 ± 0.52 mm, P < 0.004). In the regression analysis, treatment time influenced the lower incisor inclination (Beta = -0.713, P = 0.018) and OJ (Beta = -0.218, P = 0.018); patients' initial characteristics had an effect on OJ (Beta = -0.195, P = 0.011).

Limitations

A larger sample size could increase the generalizability of the findings.

Conclusion

MAD wear after a mean of 3.5 years determines statistically significant but clinically irrelevant dentoskeletal changes. Their potential occurrence should be thoroughly discussed with patients; regular follow-up visits by a specialist experienced in dental sleep medicine are also mandatory during treatment in addition to polysomnographic examinations.

Dental and skeletal changes associated with long-term oral appliance use for obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta-analysis

An oral appliance (OA) is an effective treatment option for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but dental and skeletal changes have been detected by many studies after long-term OA use. Better understanding of the long-term side effects may decrease discontinuation of OA use and assist clinicians to make informed decisions. Accordingly, a systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to evaluate the dental and skeletal changes associated with OAs designed to advance the mandible. The quality of the studies was determined by using the risk of bias assessment tool for non-randomized studies (RoBANS), and 12 studies were included in the meta-analysis. OA use was associated with a significant decrease of overjet (OJ) and overbite (OB), and it was suggested that both parameters decreased along with the duration of treatment. Meta-analysis also demonstrated a significant increase of L1-MP. However, there were no significant changes of skeletal modifications or mandibular rotation. Changes of incisor inclination were suggested to make a contribution to reduction of OJ and OB. In conclusion, long-term OA use was associated with dental changes. The results of this study provide information for clinicians about the long-term effects of OAs.

Avoiding and Managing Oral Appliance Therapy Side Effects

There is a serious need to consider all potential side effects thoughtfully before commencing individual treatment with oral appliance therapy. Although many of these side effects are self-limiting, easily corrected, or innocuous, others are difficult or impossible to correct and can affect the patient in serious ways. As this field evolves, new information is discovered, and new products are introduced at a rather rapid pace, continuing education and prudent practice are critical to ethical care in the practice of dental sleep medicine.

Wear measurement of dental tissues and materials in clinical studies: A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to systematically review the different methods used for wear measurement of dental tissues and materials in clinical studies, their relevance and reliability in terms of accuracy and precision, and the performance of the different steps of the workflow taken independently.

METHODS

An exhaustive search of clinical studies related to wear of dental tissues and materials reporting a quantitative measurement method was conducted. MedLine, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases were used. Prospective studies, pilot studies and case series (>10 patients), as long as they contained a description of wear measurement methodology. Only studies published after 1995 were considered.

RESULTS

After duplicates' removal, 495 studies were identified, and 41 remained for quantitative analysis. Thirty-four described wear-measurement protocols, using digital profilometry and superimposition, whereas 7 used alternative protocols. A specific form was designed to analyze the risk of bias. The methods were described in terms of material analyzed; study design; device used for surface acquisition; matching software details and settings; type of analysis (vertical height-loss measurement vs volume loss measurement); type of area investigated (entire occlusal area or selective areas); and results.

SINIFICANCE

There is a need of standardization of clinical wear measurement. Current methods exhibit accuracy, which is not sufficient to monitor wear of restorative materials and tooth tissues. Their performance could be improved, notably limiting the use of replicas, using standardized calibration procedures and positive controls, optimizing the settings of scanners and matching softwares, and taking into account unusable data.

Effect of long-term oral appliance therapy on obstruction pattern in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

PURPOSE

Oral appliance therapy is an alternative treatment modality for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, there have been no studies to determine whether changes in the obstructive pattern occur following long-term use of oral devices. Therefore, we examined whether the obstructive pattern changes in patients with OSA who undergo long-term oral appliance therapy using drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE).

METHODS

We investigated 156 consecutive patients diagnosed with OSA. Seventy-nine of these patients were found to be eligible for inclusion in this study. All enrolled patients underwent two DISE examinations: before and after oral appliance use. We compared the DISE findings for each patient in terms of degree and configuration of airway obstruction at the levels of the velum, oropharynx, tongue base, and epiglottis.

RESULTS

We found that dental problems, as assessed using the average values of overjet and overbite, were significantly decreased after 2 years of oral appliance use. Comparisons of the DISE findings revealed that there was significant widening of the upper airway structures following long-term oral appliance therapy, especially in the velum (P = 0.022) and epiglottis (P = 0.001). However, changes in the configuration of upper airway obstruction were not observed in any of the structures of the upper airway.

CONCLUSIONS

We found evidence possibly indicating decreased obstruction at the levels of the velum and epiglottis after long-term use of oral appliances. We suggest further cohort studies to confirm these findings.

A prospective 10-year follow-up dental cast study of patients with obstructive sleep apnoea/snoring who use a mandibular protruding device

Objectives

This 10-year prospective study aimed to measure and evaluate the teeth position and occlusion following 10-year nocturnal use of a mandibular protruding device (MPD) in subjects with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) or snoring.

Materials and methods

Seventy-seven consecutive patients diagnosed with OSA/snoring were treated with an MPD. Fabrication of dental casts with jaw registration indexes in the intercuspal position was carried out at baseline and at follow-up, a construction bite was made, and an MPD was fitted. At the 10-year follow-up, all subjects (n = 74) were invited to participate. The dental casts were analysed in a series of measurements.

Results

Sixty subjects were included in the follow-up examination-41 were still using the device and 19 had ceased using the MPD. The MPD users showed significant changes in all analysed variables-decrease of overjet (-1.8 mm), overbite (-1.5 mm)-except the mandibular intercanine width and the maxillary anteroposterior relationship. Subjects who had ceased using their MPD retained their initial values, with the exception of a decreased overbite. The MPD users also showed an increased number of subjects with mesio-occlusion and posterior infra-occlusion; those who had ceased using their MPD mostly retained their initial status.

Conclusions

Long-term nocturnal use of an MPD may cause both favourable and unfavourable occlusion changes, such as a decrease of the overjet and overbite or posterior infra-occlusion, and these changes may continue to develop during treatment with an MPD. Subjects with a Class III relationship may not be a suitable group for treatment with an MPD due to the mesial drift of the mandibular teeth.

Tratamiento con dispositivos orales para síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS)

El objetivo de este artículo es mejorar la práctica con dispositivos orales (DO) por parte del odontólogo tratante, al alcanzar una adecuada selección del DO y brindar seguridad y efectividad al paciente. Con el uso de estos, se intenta disminuir la frecuencia o duración de los eventos respiratorios. Los DO están indicados en pacientes con ronquido primario, síndrome de apnea-hipopnea obstructiva del sueño (SAHOS) leve-moderado y SAHOS severo que no quieran o no toleren tratamiento con presión positiva. Además, se clasifican en aparatos de retención de lengua, aparatos no ajustables y ajustables, siendo estos últimos los más recomendados por ser dispositivos de avance mandibular (DAM), pues son hechos a la medida, ajustables y de arco dual. Su mecanismo de acción consiste en protruisión del maxilar inferior, adelantamiento del hueso hioides y apertura mandibular.Los DAM son más eficaces en pacientes jóvenes, con menor índice de masa corporal (IMC), circunferencia de cuello reducida, SAHOS posicional y mandíbula retrognática. Se pueden presentar efectos adversos como salivación excesiva, cambios oclusales y trastornos temporomandibulares. Se ha demostrado que los DAM tienen un impacto en la disminución del índice de apnea-hipopnea (IAH) y somnolencia diurna, mejoría en la oxigenación nocturna, función cardiovascular, calidad de vida y comportamiento neurocognitivo. Asimismo, los DAM son superiores al tratamiento con presión positiva de vía aérea (PAP) en adherencia. Se sugiere que la terapia combinada de DAM con PAP y otros tratamientos es promisoria para aquellos pacientes que responden de manera insuficiente a la monoterapia.

Oral Appliances for the Management of OSA: An Updated Review of the Literature

Oral appliances (OAs) are becoming increasingly recognized not only as an alternative to but also possibly as an adjunct treatment modality for OSA. Compared with CPAP, the gold standard therapy, OAs are less efficacious but are more accepted and tolerated by patients, which, in turn, may lead to a comparable level of therapeutic effectiveness. Different OA designs currently exist, and more are constantly emerging. Additionally, state-of-the-art technologies are being used in the fabrication of many; however, all the currently available OAs employ the same mechanism of action by targeting the anatomical component involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. Furthermore, the scope of use of OAs is expanding to include patients who are edentulous. For patients with OAs, the dentist is a member of an interdisciplinary team managing OSA, and constant communication and follow-up with the sleep physician and other team members is necessary for disease management.

Changes in lower incisor irregularity during treatment with oral sleep apnea appliances

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to test the hypothesis that a flexible oral appliance without incisor coverage (OA_Flex) increases the irregularity of the front teeth compared with a rigid appliance with incisor coverage (OA_Rigid) in patients treated for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

METHOD AND PATIENTS

Nineteen patients (10 men) who had used OA_Rigid and 22 patients (19 men) who had used OA_Flex with a median age of 61 years (IQR of 56 to 67 years) who had been treated during a median period of 2.9 years (IQR of 2.7 to 3.1 years) were included in the study. There was no difference in age (p = 0.601) or treatment time (p = 0.432) between the two appliance groups. The patients had clinical examinations, responded to a questionnaire, and had impressions taken for plaster casts. The irregularity of the front teeth was measured by Little's Index, where the combined linear displacement of all the front teeth is assessed. Changes between baseline and follow-up were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The OA_Flex group increased the irregularity of their lower front teeth by 0.3 mm (p = 0.018), while the OA_Rigid group had unchanged frontal irregularity (p = 0.717). The difference between the groups was significant (p = 0.035). There were no changes in the irregularity of the upper front teeth in either group. Patient satisfaction with treatment did not differ between the two appliances.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results support the hypothesis that a flexible OA without incisor coverage increases the irregularity of the lower front teeth compared with a rigid OA with incisor coverage.

Improved apnea-hypopnea index and lowest oxygen saturation after maxillomandibular advancement with or without counterclockwise rotation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This study investigated whether patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who undergo maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) with counterclockwise (CCW) rotation compared with those who undergo MMA without CCW rotation have better outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a systematic review with meta-analysis. The Medline and Cochrane databases were searched for randomized controlled trials using Medical Subject Headings. The predictor variable was operative technique, namely MMA with or without CCW rotation of the maxillofacial complex. The key outcome variables were changes in pre- and postsurgical values of pharyngeal volume measured on computed tomogram or cone-beam computed tomogram and changes in Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) and lowest oxygen saturation (LSAT) values after surgery. Data were subjected to a meta-analysis based on odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and P values lower than .05 by χ(2) test were considered significant.

RESULTS

Twenty-one randomized controlled trials were identified and 4 were assessed for the variables of interest. Postoperative AHI and LSAT measurements showed vast improvement. The sample was not large enough to make a correlation between pharyngeal volume changes and surgical method used. Postoperative parameters included an AHI lower than 5 (OR = 14.9; 95% CI, 2.7-83.5; P = .002), an AHI lower than 20 (OR = 114.8; 95% CI, 23.5-561.1; P <.00001), pooled results of a 50% decrease in the AHI (OR = 6.1; 95% CI, 2.2-17.0; P = .0006), and an increase greater than 90% in LSAT measurements during sleep (OR = 6.0; 95% CI, 1.8-19.9; P = .003). The funnel plot showed no evidence of publication bias.

CONCLUSION

CCW-MMA or MMA in patients with OSA results in a statistically meaningful decrease in postoperative AHI and a statistically meaningful increase in postoperative LSAT.

Clinical guidelines for oral appliance therapy in the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea

The purpose of this review is to provide guidelines for the use of oral appliances (OAs) for the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in Australia. A review of the scientific literature up to June 2012 regarding the clinical use of OAs in the treatment of snoring and OSA was undertaken by a dental and medical sleep specialists team consisting of respiratory sleep physicians, an otolaryngologist, orthodontist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon and an oral medicine specialist. The recommendations are based on the most recent evidence from studies obtained from peer reviewed literature. Oral appliances can be an effective therapeutic option for the treatment of snoring and OSA across a broad range of disease severity. However, the response to therapy is variable. While a significant proportion of subjects have a near complete control of the apnoea and snoring when using an OA, a significant proportion do not respond, and others show a partial response. Measurements of baseline and treatment success should ideally be undertaken. A coordinated team approach between medical practitioner and dentist should be fostered to enhance treatment outcomes. Ongoing patient follow-up to monitor treatment efficacy, OA comfort and side effects are cardinal to long-term treatment success and OA compliance.

Long-term oral appliance therapy in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: a controlled study on dental side effects

Objectives

This study aimed to assess possible dental side effects associated with long-term use of an adjustable oral appliance compared with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in patients with the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and to study the relationship between these possible side effects and the degree of mandibular protrusion associated with oral appliance therapy.

Materials and methods

As part of a previously conducted RCT, 51 patients were randomized to oral appliance therapy and 52 patients to CPAP therapy. At baseline and after a 2-year follow-up, dental plaster study models in full occlusion were obtained which were thereupon analyzed with respect to relevant variables.

Results

Long-term use of an oral appliance resulted in small but significant dental changes compared with CPAP. In the oral appliance group, overbite and overjet decreased 1.2 (±1.1) mm and 1.5 (±1.5) mm, respectively. Furthermore, we found a significantly larger anterior–posterior change in the occlusion (−1.3 ± 1.5 mm) in the oral appliance group compared to the CPAP group (−0.1 ± 0.6 mm). Moreover, both groups showed a significant decrease in number of occlusal contact points in the (pre)molar region. Linear regression analysis revealed that the decrease in overbite was associated with the mean mandibular protrusion during follow-up [regression coefficient (β) = −0.02, 95 % confidence interval (−0.04 to −0.00)].

Conclusions

Oral appliance therapy should be considered as a lifelong treatment, and there is a risk of dental side effects to occur.

Clinical relevance

Patients treated with the oral appliance need a thorough follow-up by a dentist or dental-specialist experienced in the field of dental sleep medicine.

Mandibular advancement appliances remain effective in lowering respiratory disturbance index for 2.5-4.5 years

OBJECTIVE

The mandibular advancement appliance (MAA) is now recognized as a first-line therapy option for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). The aim of this follow-up study was to re-assess the long-term efficacy of MAAs provided to patients in a previous comparative study.

METHODS

Sixteen subjects had participated in a previous comparative study in which the efficacy and compliance of two MAAs (Klearway - K and Silencer - S) were compared in a randomized cross-over design. At the end of the previous comparative study, subjects selected the MAA they preferred. Nine chose the K and seven the S. Fifteen subjects were available for a follow-up interview and 14 (4 women and 10 men; mean ± SEM: 51.9 ± 1.7 y.o.) agreed to participate in an overnight sleep recording at a hospital sleep laboratory from January to February 2009. The mean time lag between the end of the previous comparative study and the follow-up was 40.9 ± 2.1 months (range of 2.5-4.5 years). Comparisons were made across the three polysomnographic evaluations (PSGE): baseline, the night with the appliance of their choice at the end of the previous comparative study, and the follow-up night. Subjects completed the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS), the fatigue severity scale (FSS), and a quality of life questionnaire (FOSQ).

RESULTS

At the follow-up, the respiratory disturbance index (RDI) remained significantly lower than baseline (p<0.001). Questionnaire responses revealed that ESS, FSS, and FOSQ remained improved at follow-up (p<0.02). Body mass index (BMI) increased slightly from baseline to follow-up (p<0.05). Diastolic and systolic blood pressure and cardiac rhythm decreased significantly from baseline to follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The MAAs remained effective in improving RDI, sleepiness, blood pressure, cardiac rhythm, fatigue, sleep quality, and quality of life over a period of 2.5-4.5 years. The rise in BMI is a concern that merits further examination.