Long term therapeutic efficacy of a soft monobloc mandibular advancement device in adults with obstructive sleep apnea.

AIM: To evaluate the long term (48 months) therapeutic efficacy of a soft monobloc mandibular advancement device in adult patients with mild or moderate obstructive sleep apnea. METHODS: The study population comprised 28 patients (6 female and 22 male, mean age 52.2 +/- 6.8 years) affected by obstructive sleep apnea. After a baseline medical and somnographic examination, a functional examination of the stomatognathic system, and a questionnaire focused on sleep-related qualities and a daytime somnolence, each patient received an individual device. Two follow-ups were made 6 months (T1) and 48 months (T2) after soft monobloc mandibular advancement device treatment had been initiated, and all initial examinations were repeated. RESULTS: The statistical analysis showed a significant decrease in body mass index value between T1 and T2 (rho = 0,012), an increase of Epworth sleepiness scale value between T1 and T2 (rho = 0,012), and a significant improvement and decrease of apnea/hypopnea index between T0 and T1 (rho = 0,010) and between T0 and T2 (rho = 0,013). CONCLUSION: Treatment with the soft monobloc mandibular advancement device is a therapeutic solution with long term and stable effects (48 months) for patients suffering from mild or moderate obstructive sleep apnea.