Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Stomatology, University of Medical Sciences of Havana, Havana, Cuba
2
Department of Stomatology, Institute of Medical Sciences of Villa Clara, Santa Clara, Cuba
10.30485/ijsrdms.2026.566775.1692
Abstract
Background and aim: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep-related breathing disorder associated with significant cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurocognitive consequences. Although Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) remains the gold standard treatment, poor patient adherence has led to increasing use of Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) as a patient-friendly alternative. This study aimed to evaluate treatment outcomes and patient adherence to oral appliance therapy for OSA and to identify clinical, behavioral, and system-related factors influencing therapeutic success.
Material and methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among adult patients diagnosed with OSA who were undergoing oral appliance therapy using adjustable mandibular advancement devices. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and clinical records, covering demographic characteristics, diagnostic methods (PSG/HSAT), appliance type, titration protocols, follow-up frequency, side effects, adherence patterns, and interdisciplinary communication between dentists and sleep physicians. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were used for data analysis.
Results: Most participants were middle-aged males diagnosed using polysomnography or home sleep apnea testing. Regular clinician-guided titration, frequent follow-up visits, and structured collaboration between dentists and physicians were associated with higher adherence rates (6–7 nights per week) and improved clinical outcomes, including reductions in daytime sleepiness, snoring, and Apnea–Hypopnea Index (AHI). Patients who experienced unmanaged side effects or irregular follow-up demonstrated lower adherence and reduced treatment effectiveness. Administrative and insurance-related support facilitated timely therapy initiation and sustained use.
Conclusions: Oral appliance therapy is an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for patients with mild to moderate OSA when supported by standardized titration protocols, objective adherence monitoring, regular follow-up, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Optimizing clinical workflows, patient education, and healthcare coordination can substantially improve treatment outcomes and long-term adherence in dental sleep medicine.
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