Intraoral protrusion devices in obstructive sleep apnea. Dental findings and possible treatments

BACKGROUND: Oral protrusive devices are regarded as an alternative treatment option for snoring and mild to moderate obstructive breathing disorders. In addition to the polysomnographic indication based on the respiratory and somnographic findings, healthy stomatognatic conditions with sufficient dental retention for the device are essential for a successful treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The sleep laboratory of the University Hospital of Freiburg i. Br. referred 112 patients with obstructive sleep apnea to the Department of Orthodontics for treatment with an oral protrusive device. All patients were examined clinically and with a panoramic radiograph with regard to continuous treatment. RESULTS: To maximize treatment success and minimize dental side effects, close collaboration with dental colleagues is necessary in treatment with an oral protrusive device. CONCLUSIONS: Acute periodontitis, periodontal lesions, insufficient dental anchorage, and temporomandibular symptoms can result in unwanted dental side effects and therefore limit the indication of this therapeutic approach.