Treating Sleep Apnea - A Unique Approach

The Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP) is based on the same principle as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, CPR. The airway must be opened to allow air to pass through the throat. A constricted or collapsed airway causes snoring or sleep apnea.

The TAP holds the lower jaw in a forward position so that it does not fall open during the night and cause the airway to collapse. The TAP maintains a clear airway to reduce snoring and improve breathing.

• Comfortable and patient-friendly

• Custom-made to prevent any change in teeth position or mouth structures

• Patient-adjustable allowing maximum comfort and effectiveness

Snoring Defined
When the jaw opens and the tongue falls into the back of the throat, the airway narrows forcing air through the small opening. This creates vibrations in the throat known as snoring. Although snoring seems physically harmless, it can be a red flag for a much more serious and sometimes fatal condition called obstructive sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway completely collapses blocking airflow into the lungs. The harder one tries to breathe, the tighter the airway seals. This airway obstruction persists until the brain partially awakens the person. Unconsciously, he/she will close the jaw returning the tongue and throat to a normal position.

The sleep apnea cycle falling asleep, jaw relaxing, airway collapsing, unconsciously awakening with a gasp, falling back asleep can repeat itself 50 or more times per hour during the night. With a blocked air passage, one does not receive enough oxygen. Both the awakenings and oxygen deprivation can then trigger other health problems.

SLEEP APNEA CAN CAUSE:

• Chronic Sleepiness

• Strokes

• Heart Attack

• Heartburn

• Morning Headaches

• Depression

• High Blood Pressure

• Impotence