Snoring, sleep apnoea and the role of dental appliances

This article describes the problems of snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea, together with an outline of treatment options. The Glasgow approach, whereby patients are investigated at a sleep clinic and a custom-made mandibular advancement device is made in semi-soft material, is also described. We have demonstrated the acceptability and effectiveness of a simple appliance in patients with varying dental states, some with simple snoring and some with mild to moderate sleep apnoea. Our experience relates to around 260 patients, extending over a period of 4 years with good success. The simple intraoral device is recommended as a first line of approach for patients with problem snoring.