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Abstract

A non-surgical, non-invasive therapeutic apparatus and method, of an adult oral cavity appliance that improves airway patency for correcting snoring and/or obstructive sleep apnea due to intermittent closures or partial obstructions occurring in the oro pharynx. The appliance repositions the mandible in an inferior (open) and anterior (protrusive) position as compared to the normal closed position of the jaw, typically, on the order to 10-20 mm inferior, and 3-10 mm (preferably 3-6 mm) anterior. It is a rigid, generally V-shaped wedge molded to the entire mandibular dentition and a portion of the maxillary dentition. It is completely open in the front, and preferably open at the top (across the palatal arch). The mandibular incisal edge is embedded, with a lip extending about 1-2 mm over the labial surface of the mandibular incisors. It extends over the lingual surfaces of all mandibular teeth and downwardly into the lingual vestibule. It covers the palatal surfaces of the maxillary bicuspids and molars and extends onto the palate. The lack of full palatal coverage provides space for the tongue, which rests in its normal position. Results indicate reduction in snoring and related apneic episodes, and the device can be worn for full sleep periods without discomfort.

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