Advances in the role of oral devices in the treatment of OSAS

Over the past years, a novel direction in dentistry, named 'Dental Sleep Medicine,' has been increasingly developed. The objective is to find an effective remedy for the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome (OSAS) through the use of various Oral Appliances (OAs). These appliances can be used alternatively or in conjunction with the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), depending on the degree of OSAS and patient compliance. The various OAs available and discussed in the medical literature differ from each other based on the patency mechanism of the airways. Furthermore, OAs determine not only an improvement of the respiratory flow, but also the improvement of cardiovascular system of patient, as well as the general improvements of the quality of life. The use of OA reduces the risk of hypertension, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, that are common with patients with OSAS. The purpose of this Chapter is to provide a review of medical literature in order to evaluate the different types of OAs, their characteristics, use and effects and to provide a guidance for an effective multidisciplinary management of OSAS treatment.