dreamTAP™ Sleep Appliance Wesley Chapel
Sleep Like a Dream with This Innovative Appliance
Oral appliance therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is often lumped together as a single treatment, but the truth is that there are quite a few different oral appliances on the market! Each has its own unique set of features and benefits, which is why Dr. Nelson and our team offer a variety; we want to find the best appliance for each patient. After a thorough evaluation, our Wesley Chapel team might recommend that you use the innovative dreamTAP™ appliance. Contact us today to learn more.
What Is the dreamTAP™ Sleep Appliance?
The dreamTAP is an innovative mandibular advancement device (MAD) that is designed to minimize symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. It works by carefully repositioning the lower jaw. In turn, this helps to prevent tissues from collapsing into the airway and causing blockages.
Similar to other MADs, the dreamTAP sort of resembles a mouthguard that you would wear for sports. However, it has a unique hook-and-bar mechanism that is designed specifically to promote easy breathing during sleep.
One unique feature of the dreamTAP is that its adjustment mechanisms are located on the outside of the device. This allows more space for the tongue and greatly promotes patient comfort.
How Do I Use the dreamTAP Sleep Appliance for Sleep Apnea?
Our team will show you how to get the most out of your device when we give it to you.
The device has two separate trays that get placed on your teeth. Start by inserting the upper, then the lower. Hook them together in order to put your lower jaw in a forward position that is comfortable for you to sustain. There is an adjustment key on the device that you can use to increase or decrease the level of jaw advancement.
In the morning, remove the device by unhooking the trays and then carefully taking them out, starting toward the back of your mouth. Clean your dreamTAP before you place it in its storage case for the day. Be sure it is completely dry before you store it so excess moisture will not cause bacterial growth.
Benefits of the dreamTAP Sleep Appliance
Some noteworthy benefits of the dreamTAP sleep appliance include:
- It is highly effective for many cases of mild to moderate sleep apnea.
- By leaving more space for your tongue, it can reduce the risk of gagging while you are wearing the appliance.
- It is easy to adjust on your own, which helps you find a comfortable position for your lower jaw.
- The hardware is durable and easy to clean.