(The forward bite position is protected by US Patent 9,545,332 B2)
The Luco Hybrid OSA Appliance is designed with a patented forward bite position. This means that the appliance only contacts in the region of the eyeteeth. By shifting the bite forward, there is no contact on the molar regions. This distributes the bite force evenly in the skull. Appliances with contact in the molar areas result in pressure distribution into the lower jaw and TMJ. This is one of main reasons that the Luco Hybrid OSA Appliance is so effective at treating sleep bruxism and preventing TMJ pain in OSA patients. By shifting the bite forward, stimulation of the cuspids periodontal ligaments results in an inhibitory signal to the Trigeminal ganglion, preventing the increase in heart rate and blood pressure seen in sleep- related bruxism. This is one of the most significant features of the LHOA.
The following image shows two sleep tracing of the same patient. In the first, intense sleep bruxism can be seen as well as two events where the pulse exceeded 100 bpm (beats per minute). In the second tracing, there is no sleep bruxism seen and the pulse rate is level and stable.
The forward bite is unique to this appliance. it provides a very comfortable resting point for the lower jaw during sleep. With the activation of the pharyngeal muscles (that re-position the lower jaw and tongue forward naturally), the lower jaw rests comfortably in this position (see graphs above).
In the image below, the bite is set with no contact on the molar pads. This is the patented forward bite.
For dentists, the forward bite is very desirable as it takes adjusting the bite from 20-30 minutes to 5 minutes or less. Even patients who are severe sleep bruxers will find immediate comfort with this bite position.
Research has shown that a 75% advancement is the most effective starting position for treating sleep bruxism. We have confirmed this clinically with numerous sleep studies and recommend this as the standard starting position for the treatment of primary sleep bruxism.