Sleep Apnoea

What is Sleep Apnoea?

A serious medical condition, Sleep Apnoea or to be more precise Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, occurs during sleep when the tissues of the upper airway relax and collapse.  As this results in blocking the airway, you actually stop breathing until a trigger in your brain wakes you up to take a breath.  The recurring pattern may result in constant tiredness, reduced concentration and lack of energy.

Oral Appliance Therapy

A specifically modified appliance called a Mandibular Advancement Splint, worn while you sleep is used to reposition the lower jaw forward relative to the upper jaw.  This allows the tongue to move forward, creating an unobstructed airway which reduces and/or stops snoring and sleep apnoea.  Most patients will be referred by a sleep specialist and have had a sleep study done.  Following a consultation with Dr Burnett, an impression (mould) will be taken of the upper and lower teeth and a specialised technician will manufacture the appliance according to Dr Burnett’s instructions.  The appliance will be fitted three weeks after the impressions are taken and follow up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the condition.