09-25-2021, 11:51 AM
(This post was last modified: 09-25-2021, 11:53 AM by Barefooter64.
Edit Reason: removed PPS as it doesn't apply anymore
)
RE: Mandibular Advancement Devices - is your mouth supposed to be closed ?
I've been using a MAD device successfully for over 7 years. The device was slowly adjusted to give effective treatment at first. I adjust it based on how my symptoms are being mitigated. The device hasn't made my jaw joint sore that i remember but i have had a few times when my teeth are slightly sore after a large increase in treatment. My mouth stays mostly closed but i do have times of excessive saliva production.
my history:: A sleep study indicated my AHI was 10 or higher and my O2 charting showed marked declines which sync'd with the times i knew i was waking up. I did try CPAP early on but couldn't tolerate it. I use a TAP3 custom fit device I got from my dentist. We tried a less expensive, lighter built, option but my clenching habit cracked the device after a couple weeks.
The MAD works for me due to the nature of the apnea. I knew from paying attention when i was rousting up at night that my jaw and tongue were sliding back and causing obstruction and lots of snoring. My sleep habit complicates the situation as I hook a finger over my chin and pull it down which ensures obstruction. Whenever my MAD is in the shop (a few days every few years so far) i can tell a big difference in how i feel those days. I've tracked my O2 levels with and without the device and the difference is marked.
PS: The CPAP listed in my profile is what my wife uses which is why i'm here.. but maybe my MAD experience is helpful.
my history:: A sleep study indicated my AHI was 10 or higher and my O2 charting showed marked declines which sync'd with the times i knew i was waking up. I did try CPAP early on but couldn't tolerate it. I use a TAP3 custom fit device I got from my dentist. We tried a less expensive, lighter built, option but my clenching habit cracked the device after a couple weeks.
The MAD works for me due to the nature of the apnea. I knew from paying attention when i was rousting up at night that my jaw and tongue were sliding back and causing obstruction and lots of snoring. My sleep habit complicates the situation as I hook a finger over my chin and pull it down which ensures obstruction. Whenever my MAD is in the shop (a few days every few years so far) i can tell a big difference in how i feel those days. I've tracked my O2 levels with and without the device and the difference is marked.
PS: The CPAP listed in my profile is what my wife uses which is why i'm here.. but maybe my MAD experience is helpful.
