Produced by SomnoMed, SomnoDent oral appliances are designed to alleviate snoring and other obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) symptoms. These mandibular advancement devices (MADs) physically push your lower jaw forward to expand your airway and promote airflow through your breathing passages.
Six custom-fitted SomnoDent models are available. You’ll need approval from a dentist and a prescription to obtain one of these devices.
We’ll review the different SomnoDent sleep appliances to help you understand how they work so you can decide whether one of these devices is right for you.
SomnoDent Sleep Appliances: What You Need to Know
SomnoDent oral appliances are anti-snoring mouthpieces which have been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration as a treatment for people with mild to moderate OSA. Available in six designs, all SomnoDent appliances are composed of acrylic material.
The device is custom-fitted to your mouth using dental impressions of your upper and lower teeth. Depending on the model, elastic straps or screws connect the retainers on each side. You can adjust the advancement level by rotating the screws or swapping out the straps.
Each of the six SomnoDent appliances is unique and best suited to certain people. For example, the SomnoDent Avant caters to those who need elastic bands to keep their mouths closed, while the SomnoDent Flex and SomnoDent Fusion are designed for people with large vertical mouth openings.
Is a SomnoDent Device Right for You?
SomnoDent appliances are noninvasive oral appliances intended to minimize snoring associated with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. One of these devices could be suitable for someone with OSA who dislikes CPAP therapy or did not respond well to that form of OSA treatment. A prescription is required to purchase a SomnoDent device.
All SomnoDent appliances feature front openings between the top and bottom retainers to make them more comfortable for a person who primarily breathes through their mouth. As with other sleep apnea mouthpieces, there are advantages and drawbacks to using a SomnoDent appliance.
Pros and Cons of SomnoDent Sleep Appliances
How Does the SomnoDent Work?
SomnoDent devices push the lower jaw forward to expand your airway. This helps prevent air from creating tissue vibrations in your breathing passages, which is a common cause of snoring. These appliances are primarily intended for people who snore due to obstructive sleep apnea.
Treatment for Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea
OSA is caused by a physical blockage in the throat that leads to temporary loss of breath, choking, and gasping during sleep. Snoring is a primary symptom of OSA, so SomnoDent appliances can improve sleep for people with this condition. The appliance is not intended for people with central sleep apnea.
Movement and Ease of Use
The six SomnoDent appliances vary in terms of comfort, flexibility, and ease of movement. The SomnoDent Avant features elastic bands to promote side-to-side jaw movement, but other models feel more rigid.
Performance and Results
A SomnoDent oral appliance can be highly effective for people who snore due to OSA. The suite of design options allows the device to accommodate a wide range of sleepers.
The SomnoDent product line currently consists of six individual models made from acrylic material. Each has unique features designed for specific user preferences.
SomnoDent Herbst Advance
SomnoDent Herbst Advance Elite
How Are SomnoDent Oral Appliances Made?
SomnoDent appliances are custom-fitted for your mouth using teeth impressions from your dentist. All designs share the same general composition and shape, but the means of adjusting your jaw’s advancement level varies by model. Your dentist can help you choose a device based on the anatomy of your mouth.
After receiving teeth impressions from your dentist, SomnoMed uses computer-aided design software to mimic your mouth’s unique shape. All SomnoDent devices are composed of acrylic material, though some are engineered to feel more flexible than others.
Adjustability and Comfort
Depending on the model, SomnoDent appliances may be adjusted using interchangeable elastic straps, rotating screws, or movable arm extensions.
Lifespan and Durability
The acrylic material used for SomnoDent appliances is fairly durable. With proper care and storage, your mouthpiece should last three to five years before a replacement is needed. You should replace the Avant’s elastic straps if they become misshapen or overly stretched.
Cleaning and Maintenance
SomnoMed sells SomTabs, which are cleaning tablets specifically intended for these appliances. Clean the appliance each morning and store it in the plastic container included with your purchase. Avoid using toothpaste to clean the device, as this can corrode the acrylic. Certain models have parts that require additional cleaning procedures, so refer to the device’s manual for specific instructions.
Where Can You Get SomnoDent Sleep Devices?
You’ll need to speak with your doctor prior to obtaining a SomnoDent device. They may recommend a sleep study to determine if you have sleep apnea, and if so, how severe it is. If your doctor determines that you’re a good candidate for oral appliance therapy, the next step is to visit a licensed dental provider who will take impressions of your teeth.
After sending your teeth impressions to SomnoMed, your dentist will serve as an intermediary for the purchase and point person for subsequent checkups. Your insurance may cover a portion of the cost, depending on your provider.
Trial, Warranty, and Shipping Policies
SomnoDent appliances must be ordered through a licensed dental provider. They are not available over the counter.
SomnoDent costs vary by model, which dentist you choose, and your specific insurance coverage, but expect to pay at least $1,000 to $2,000.
To qualify for a SomnoDent appliance, you’ll need to obtain a prescription and provide a dental impression. Additional steps such as an overnight sleep study may be required.
A three-year warranty covers your SomnoDent appliance against breakage incurred while wearing the device and other defects.