Mouthguards
Custom-fitted guards made from impressions of your teeth: sports mouthguards protect against impact, while night guards protect against grinding (bruxism) during sleep.
Obstructive sleep apnoea
Medically reviewed by Dr Matthew Sng ·
Custom-made oral appliances that hold the lower jaw forward during sleep to keep the airway open — an option for snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea.
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Pricing
Mandibular advancement device (anti-snoring device): from S$2,500 to S$4,000
Prices are indicative and based on normal case complexity. A consultation is required for a definitive quote.
Sleeping disorders such as obstructive sleep apnoea leave us sluggish and fatigued, preventing us from enjoying each new day. Dental sleep medicine is a field of dental practice that deals with the use of oral appliances, such as anti-snoring devices, to treat sleeping disorders like sleep apnoea and snoring. The most suitable form of treatment for each patient is usually co-determined by a dentist and a sleep physician.
What is Sleep Apnoea?
Sleep apnoea is a disorder where a person stops breathing repeatedly in their sleep due to a complete or partial blocking of their airway. “Apnoea” literally means “without breath.”
Does sleep apnoea sound unfamiliar to you? It is actually more common than you think. Unfortunately, most cases of sleep apnoea go undiagnosed. In fact, a 2016 study by Jurong Health Services found that:
- 1 in 3 Singaporeans suffer from moderate to severe sleep apnoea
- 1 in 10 suffer from severe sleep apnoea
Yet, up to 90% of these cases were previously undiagnosed.
How Do I Know if I Am Suffering from Sleep Apnoea?
You may have sleep apnoea if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Excessive gasping or snoring during sleep
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Headaches in the morning
- Dry mouth in the morning
How Is Sleep Apnoea Treated?
Depending on the severity of your condition, different treatments may be recommended.
- Mild cases: Your dentist may suggest that you wear an anti-snoring device during sleep.
- Moderate to severe cases: You may be advised to see a specialised sleep physician for more complex treatment.
What Is an Anti-Snoring Device?
An anti-snoring device, also known as a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD), helps to reposition your jaw and tongue to improve air circulation. A mould will be taken of your teeth to create a custom-fitted device.
If you would like to find out more about anti-snoring devices and sleep apnoea treatment, please give us a call or book an appointment at any of our dental clinics around Singapore.
Who it's for
People who snore or have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea, often as an alternative to a CPAP machine, and some who cannot tolerate CPAP. A sleep study and medical assessment guide whether an oral appliance is appropriate for you.
Time and visits
After an assessment and impressions, the custom appliance is made and fitted over a few weeks, with reviews to adjust the position for comfort and effect.
Recovery and aftercare
No downtime. The appliance is worn at night; mild jaw or tooth tenderness and extra saliva are common at first and usually settle as you get used to it.
Risks and considerations
Possible jaw or tooth discomfort, bite changes over long-term use, and it may not fully control more severe sleep apnoea — which is why ongoing review and, where needed, a sleep physician's input matter.
Common questions
Is obstructive sleep apnoea reversible?
While obstructive sleep apnoea cannot be fully reversed, it can be effectively managed with appropriate treatment. Compliance with recommended therapies, lifestyle modifications, and regular follow-up can help control symptoms and improve quality of life.
Can children have obstructive sleep apnoea?
Yes, obstructive sleep apnoea can occur in children as well. It is often caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids and may present with symptoms such as snoring, restless sleep, bedwetting, and behavioral issues.
What are the consequences of sleep apnoea?
Untreated obstructive sleep apnoea can increase the risk of developing several health conditions, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and depression.
What are the treatment options for obstructive sleep apnoea?
Treatment options for obstructive sleep apnoea may include lifestyle modifications (such as weight loss and positional therapy), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliances, and in some cases, surgical interventions.
Are there any alternative treatments to CPAP for obstructive sleep apnoea?
Yes, for individuals who are unable to tolerate or comply with CPAP therapy, oral appliances may be recommended. These devices help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw and tongue during sleep.
All 13 questions
What are the symptoms of sleep apnoea?
Common symptoms of sleep apnoea include morning headaches, dry mouth in the morning, excessive gasping or snoring during sleep, and difficulty falling asleep.
How is sleep apnoea treated?
For a mild case of sleep apnoea, a dentist may recommend an anti-snoring device worn during sleep to reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. More severe cases may require a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) system or surgery.
How is obstructive sleep apnoea diagnosed?
A diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea is typically made through a sleep study called polysomnography. This test monitors various physiological parameters during sleep, such as breathing patterns, brain waves, and oxygen levels.
What are the common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea?
Common symptoms include loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and witnessed episodes of breathing cessation during sleep.
Are there any side effects of wearing an anti-snoring device?
Anti-snoring devices are designed to reposition your jaw, which can lead to complications such as the shifting or even loss of your teeth if the right care is not taken. It is recommended that you use a custom-made device and receive regular monitoring by your dentist and/or sleep physician for the safe and most effective solution to sleep apnoea.
What is obstructive sleep apnoea?
Obstructive sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses occur due to the collapse or blockage of the upper airway, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and potential health risks.
How effective is CPAP therapy for treating obstructive sleep apnoea?
CPAP therapy is used in treating obstructive sleep apnoea. It involves wearing a mask over the nose or nose and mouth during sleep, which delivers a constant flow of air to keep the airway open. Compliance with CPAP therapy is crucial for optimal results.
Can weight loss help improve obstructive sleep apnoea?
Yes, weight loss can be beneficial in managing obstructive sleep apnoea, particularly if excess weight is a contributing factor. Losing weight through a combination of diet and exercise can reduce the severity of symptoms in some cases.
Orthodontic and Functional Devices
Appliances that guide tooth position and jaw growth — expanders, functional appliances, space maintainers and habit-breaking devices — often used in children before or alongside braces.
Temporomandibular Disorders
Diagnosis and management of jaw-joint and muscle problems — pain, clicking, locking and bite-related headaches — using bite splints, physiotherapy, medication or botulinum injections.
Sleep Apnoea and Your Oral Health
How sleep apnoea shows up in the mouth, and the dental appliances used to treat it