what to expect

After the maxillary (upper arch) and mandibular (lower arch) appliances are fitted, the mandible is advanced to an appropriate distance.  You will be given complete instructions on how to place your appliance in your mouth and how to adjust and care for it.

After the first few nights sleep, you might be aware of sore teeth and possible jaw discomfort.  Usually those symptoms disappear in a few days and the appliance becomes comfortable to wear nightly.  Following a week of wear with comfortable teeth and jaws, you will be able to adjust the the appliance yourself if you feel that snoring or apnea problems continue.

After three weeks the progress of the appliance is reviewed in the office.  The patient takes home a sleep monitor for a one night study with a subsequent review of the findings. When the appliance is performing effectively, you will be seen in the office in six months and then once per year to check the device for any problems, reevaluate sleep quality and determine if there are any other problems. 

It is also appropriate to have a follow up polysomnogram (sleep study) to verify sleep efficacy.  The ultimate goal is to provide the least amount of snoring, reduce the apneas and hypopneas to a healthy level, and allow good restorative sleep.