Sleep Apnea

What is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder in which a person’s breathing stops and starts repeatedly. Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping for air whilst sleeping and daytime sleepiness (caused by poor quality sleep).

Who is SomnoDent designed for?

SomnoDent is designed primarily for people who snore loudly or suffer from mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). More severe cases of sleep apnea in Canberra are likely to require a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) pump or corrective surgery.

How does SomnoDent treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring?

Both obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring occur when the muscles and tissues in the back of the throat relax – causing the airway to narrow and take in less air. In the case of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the brain senses this problem and rouses the person from sleep.

A SomnoDent mandibular advancement splint (MAS) – a device akin to a mouthguard – works by “positioning the patient’s mandibular (lower jaw) and tongue forward, clearing the obstructed airway.” It’s fair to say that SomnoDent is one of the best sleep apnea devices available in Canberra.

How do I know if I have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?

For a truly accurate diagnosis, a sleep apnea test at a proper sleep clinic / laboratory in Canberra is required. A sleep apnea test (also known as a polysomnography test) is conducted whilst you sleep: it records your brain waves, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, eye / leg movements and breathing.

What’s the process for organising a SomnoDent sleep apnea oral device in Canberra?

At Dickson Park Dental Surgery, we follow a proven process when it comes to providing SomnoDent sleep apnea oral devices in Canberra.

1. The patient brings their referral or official diagnosis to our clinic.
2. We examine the patient’s teeth, mouth, neck and head, as well as their bite (to determine how far forward to position the jaw).
3. We produce dental impressions of the patient’s teeth / soft tissue for the SomnoMed laboratory (in order to customise the SomnoDent device).
4. When the SomnoDent device arrives from SomnoMed, we fit it to the patient’s mouth (making small adjustments in the process).

As an authorised provider of SomnoDent sleep apnea oral devices in Canberra, we also provide follow-up consultations and organise device repairs (when required).

How many models are in the SomnoDent range?

Currently, there are five models in the SomnoDent “Signature” range (Avant, Herbst Advance Elite, Fusion, Flex & Classic); and four models in the “Standard” range (Herbst Advance, Air/Air+, Morning Repositioner & Alpha). At Dickson Park Dental Surgery, we’ll help you choose the most suitable model.