Dental Appliances for Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

An option is the Thornton Adjustable Positioner

The Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP 3) is designed with an upper and lower tray that is attached with a fixed hinge and a pivot point.  The appliance cannot disengage while being worn. The appliance can be used for class I, II, and II bite classifications.

The design provides the following: 

The TAP 3 has a single point of central adjustment which prevents uneven bilateral changes as well as eliminates irregular bites which minimize pain in the jaw joints.  The appliance can be adjusted between the upper and lower jaw to increase or decrease the vertical distance.  Adjustments can be done at home so the patient can dial in the device to ensure it is comfortable as well as effective.  

The TAP 3 should be prescribed for adults 18 years and older who have been diagnosed with a sleep disorder such as snoring or OSA. This device should not be prescribed for patients who have dentures, loose teeth/dental work, or any other condition where the use of the device can adversely affect the patient’s oral environment. It is also contraindicated for those patients who have been diagnosed with central sleep apnea or who have respiratory disorders. 

TAP 3 Appliance Benefits

The TAP3 works by holding the lower jaw in a forward position to keep it from moving or opening during sleep.  By keeping the lower jaw in this position, the airway is prevented from collapsing.  While the appliance may take some getting used to, most patients report relief right away.  

When requesting a TAP3 appliance from Burbank Dental Lab, please provide the following: 

Eleastic Mandibular Advancement (EMA)

The other type of appliance that is often prescribed for help with snoring and OSA is the Elastic Mandibular Advancement (EMA). This is a pressure-formed appliance for the upper and lower jaw. The EMA is designed with straps on both sides to allow for easy adjustments. The palate has no obstructions, and the appliance allows gradual advancement of the jaw until the necessary opening is met. The device allows lateral movements as well.  

The EMA appliance is fabricated free of metal. It has elastic straps that can be adjusted by the patient as needed, and the patient can drink water and talk while wearing the device.

Other benefits include:

This type of appliance is indicated for patients with either a full or at least partial set of natural teeth.

When requesting an EMA appliance from Burbank Dental Lab, please provide an upper and lower model or impressions. Make sure the edentulous ridge is captured in the impression. It is important to indicate any areas that have implants, dental work, or sensitive areas.

The bite should be opened 8mm incisally. Ensure that the hinge opens from the centric. To be considered for the EMA appliance, the patient must have either a full or partial set of natural teeth. To create adequate retention, the patient’s natural dentition must have sufficient height of contour.

Patients tend to see their dentists more often than their physicians. This gives dentists a unique opportunity to identify patients who may be unknowingly suffering from snoring or OSA. Once a proper diagnosis is reached, a dental team can help to find the right dental appliance to treat the patient. If you have any questions about OSA appliances, please call or click the chat button to speak to a Burbank Dental Lab team member.