Objective: To compare patients and their sleeping partners outcomes following the use of two different chrome cobalt mandibular advancement appliances.
Method: Sixty eight patients were fitted with a chrome cobalt (TC) two part appliance with acrylic inclined bite planes (1) .Fifty seven patients were fitted with a “snore abate” (SA) skeleton chrome cobalt appliance with a fixed hinge buccal linkage(2). Patients were followed up at least one month later giving a verbal report or completed an outcome questionnaire.
Results: Grouped appliances achieved a 94% successful resolution of snoring, the SA group reported 98% & the TC 90% . Overall, sleeping partners reported an 83% success rate with the SA giving 92% & the TC 90%. Grouped compliance & tolerance rates were 66% , the SA was 70% and TC 57% for continuous nocturnal wear.
Conclusions: Chrome cobalt mandibular advancement appliances are a robust well tolerated successful treatment for sleep related breathing disorders, with success rates and compliance levels exceeding others reported in the literature. The “snore abate” was more successful, better tolerated and found to be easier to wear with fewer adverse effects than the two part appliances with inclined bite planes.
References:
(1) Chrome Cobalt mandibular advancement appliances for managing snoring & obstructive sleep apnea S.P.Ash & A.M. Smith J of Orthodontics V 31 2004
(2) “Snore abate” Reg trade mark & patent applied for, Carash Industries Ltd.