Are you tired of you (or your partner’s) restless sleeping or snoring? Sleep apnea is a common condition that affects breathing during sleep by blocking the airways or compressing the tongue to the point where abnormal breathing will wake the individual numerous times throughout the night. Not only is waking up throughout the night frustrating—for both the individual and their partner—but sleep apnea can also impair alertness when awake and adversely affects blood pressure.
As a Prosthodontist, Dr. Rodriguez has vast experience designing and expertly implementing sleep apnea devices that help patients get a restful night’s sleep. The device that our we customize for you is called the Thornton Adjustable Positioner 3 (TAP®3) – a mandibular device designed for the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Developed with advanced dental technology, the TAP 3 improves breathing and eliminates snoring in over 95% of all patients. The TAP 3 reduces the impact of associated health risks without the need for surgery, CPAP or medication. It cannot, however, be used for patients with loose teeth, loose dental work, dentures or other oral conditions (such as severe respiratory disorders) which would be adversely affected by wearing a dental appliance.
Do you think that might have sleep apnea? Sleep apnea can occur at any age and in any gender. Below are some of the common symptoms:
Based on the same principle as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the TAP 3 was designed to keep the airway open to allow for air to pass. The TAP 3 holds the lower jaw in a forward position so that it does not shift nor fall open during the night. This prevents the soft tissue of the throat from collapsing and obstructing the airway to reduce snoring and improve breathing. The TAP is the only mandibular device that can be adjusted by the patient or practitioner while in the mouth. Most patients experience relief the very first night they wear their TAP 3. Nine out of ten patients wear the device all night, every night, making the TAP 3 a highly effective solution.
The TAP 3 features a simple hook mechanism attached to the upper tray which slides under a bar attached to the lower tray and positions the lower jaw forward. Three hook sizes (for different bites) offer increased range of adjustment. A key enables the patient to adjust the protrusion of the lower jaw while wearing the device until a comfortable, effective position is achieved. The TAP 3 also meets Medicare requirements for oral appliances that treat sleep OSA.
The Specialists at the Jacksonville Center for Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry have extensive experience customizing and implementing TAP 3 devices for their sleep-challenged patients. If you or a loved one is suffering from sleep apnea, don’t wait until it causes other problems. Get a consultation with Dr. Rodriguez to find out if a sleep apnea device is the answer to a good night’s sleep.
Address:
6855 Belfort Oaks Place
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Current Patient:
(904) 281-0658
Office Hours:
Mon-Tues : 8:30am – 5:00pm
Wed : 10:00am – 2:00pm
Thu-Fri : 8:30am – 5:00pm