Oral Appliance Therapy and Temporomandibular Disorders

Abstract

This article focuses on clinical examination to assist in maintaining stable function between jaw posture, muscle function, and temporomandibular joint stability. It describes a simple and understandable approach for assessment and management of common temporomandibular symptoms arising as side effects from use of mandibular advancement device therapy for obstructive sleep apnea. Follow-up visits are necessary to assess efficacy of sleep oral devices. An interdisciplinary approach is necessary for better treatment outcome. Qualified dentists offering this therapy should be educated and gain knowledge about diagnosis, prevention, and management of common side effects, and adhere to current standards of dental sleep medicine practice.

Keywords: Dental sleep medicine; Mandibular advancement devices; Obstructive sleep apnea; Oral appliance therapy; Temporomandibular disorders.