Cephalometric evaluation of mandibular advancement at different horizontal jaw positions in obstructive sleep apnoea patients: A pilot study

Abstract

Background The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the efficacy of the mandibular advancement device (MAD) at 50% (P2) and 75% (P3) of maximum mandibular advancement, relative to maximum intercuspation (P1) subjectively and objectively. Methods Eighteen subjects previously diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) were selected for the study. ESS score, VAS score, soft palate angle, MP-H distance, S-H distance, aC4-H distance, aPu-pPu distance and total pharyngeal area were calculated at P1, P2 and P3 positions with the help of an adjustable MAD. The results were statistically analysed. Results ESS score, VAS score, soft palate angle, MP-H distance, S-H distance and radius of curvature of airway at P2 and P3 were significantly lower compared to P1, but there was no significant difference between P2 and P3. Conclusions The MAD produced significant improvement in objective signs and subjective symptoms at both 50% and 75% of the maximum mandibular protrusion positions at comparable comfort levels. Therefore, MAD may be given at 50% of maximum advancement in order to reduce dental or temporomandibular joint disturbances. © 2013 Australian Dental Association.