Snoring can be more than just an annoying sound; it can be a sign of a serious condition known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
In this week’s Dental Center 4Smile blog, learn all about the Silensor-sl anti-snoring device, which offers a mechanical solution to snoring problems, providing relief and better sleep quality for many patients.
Mechanics of snoring and OSA
Snoring is caused by the vibration of soft tissues in the upper respiratory system when the airway is partially blocked. OSA is characterized by two types of breathing interruption:
– Apnea: Complete blockage of the airway for 10 seconds or more.
– Hypopnea: Partial blockage leading to a reduction in airflow of 50% or more for 10 seconds or more.
The severity of OSA is measured using the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which indicates the number of these episodes per hour:
– Mild: 5 to 14 episodes per hour
– Moderate: 15 to 30 episodes per hour
– Severe: More than 30 episodes per hour
Dental Center 4Smile introduces Silensor-sl – The anti-snoring device
Silensor-sl is a mandibular advancement splint (MAS) designed to treat snoring and mild to moderate OSA by moving the lower jaw forward. This movement helps keep the airway open, reducing the vibrations that cause snoring and preventing blockages that lead to apnea and hypopnea.
Key features and benefits of the Silensor-sl anti-snoring device
Silensor-sl offers several benefits:
– Improved patient comfort: The dual S-shaped connectors are slightly flexible, reducing strain on the jaw joints and enhancing comfort.
– Proven effectiveness: Studies show that advancing the lower jaw significantly reduces snoring in more than 80% of patients and decreases the apnea index in 50% of users.
– Metal-free design: The Silensor-sl appliance is completely metal-free, which may benefit patients sensitive to metal.
– Easy adjustability: The connectors are easily replaceable, allowing precise adjustment of the lower jaw advancement.
Detailed components of the silensor-sl anti-snoring device
The Silensor-sl consists of upper and lower splints connected by flexible connectors:
– Upper splint: Made from Erkoloc-Pro 3.0 mm or Erkodur 2.5 mm, with a connector placed on the canine tooth.
– Lower splint: Must fit securely; it can also be made from Erkoloc-Pro 3.0 mm if there is enough retention, otherwise Erkodur 2.5 mm is used.
The connectors come in six different lengths, adjustable to achieve the desired jaw protrusion. The lower splint connector is loosely attached to an anchor, allowing movement during sleep without overloading the joints.
Conditions for successful therapy with Silensor-sl
For effective therapy with Silensor-sl:
– Ensure there are no inflammatory or painful TMJ issues.
– Ensure firm tooth anchorage with at least 8 teeth per jaw.
– Keep in mind that a BMI over 30 may reduce effectiveness.
Managing potential side effects
– Morning malocclusion: This sensation should resolve shortly after removing the appliance. Silensor-sl Relax Strips can help.
– Excessive salivation: This usually decreases over time as the patient adjusts to the device.
The Silensor-sl anti-snoring device offers a promising solution for those suffering from snoring and mild to moderate OSA.
Its design focuses on comfort, effectiveness, and adjustability, making it a valuable tool in managing sleep-related breathing disorders.
