Types of Oral Appliances
TAP Appliance
The Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP) is a custom-made two-piece adjustable appliance that is worn while sleeping. The trays of the appliance snap over the upper and lower teeth and hook together. The TAP Appliance holds the lower jaw in a forward position to prevent the airway from collapsing.
The unique design also allows the patient to fine-tune their treatment position at home to achieve maximum results.
Most patients experience relief the very first night they wear their TAP. Although it may take up to a week to get used to wearing the appliance. Nine in ten patients wear the device all night, every night making it a highly effective solution for both snoring and sleep apnea.
FDA Approval: Approved for both snoring and OSA
Date of FDA Approval: August 21, 1997
FDA Registration Number: K972061
Herbst Appliance:
The Herbst Appliance has been proven to be effective on chronic snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea sufferers. The appliance is tooth retained via friction grip or clasps.
This appliance is a mandibular (Lower Jaw) repositioner that has been in use many years and has a great advantage in that it allows for very quick, easy and accurate mandibular protrusive adjustability to improve the airway while sleeping.
FDA Approval: Approved for treatment of snoring
Date of FDA Approval: March 20, 1996
FDA Registration Number: K955822
OASYS Appliance
For patients that have a restriction of airflow at the nostrils, a different type of mandibular advancement may be considered. The OASYS uses pads of acrylic underneath the lips at the corner of the nostrils to stretch the opening and thereby reduce resistance to airflow. That reduction can effectively increase the overall air pressure of the airway. Combined with an adjustable mandibular repositioning system, the OASYS can effectively reduce the collapsibility of the airway, improving symptoms of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.
FDA Approval: Approved for treatment of snoring
Date of FDA Approval: August 26, 2003
FDA Registration Number: K030440
SomnoDent Appliance
How does the device work?
For the treatment of OSA, the SomnoDent mandibular advancement device is worn during sleep to maintain the patency of the upper airway by increasing its dimensions and 
reducing collapsibility. It is a custom made oral device that is comprised of upper and lower dental plates with a coupling component to maintain mandible protrusion.
We understand that our patients needs are varied which is why there are a number of add-ons for the device. Such additions include elastic retention for mouth breathers and an anterior ramp for bruxing. Somnodent also offers a treatment solution for edentulous patients.
Reasons Dr. Braga Might Use SomnoDent
Comfort
The SomnoDent is comfortable 
and easy to wear. The appliance uses the smallest amount of material possible, reducing bulkiness in the mouth. It is made up of two separate pieces, which allow you to speak, yawn and drink. The design does not limit tongue space which results in a high comfort level.
96% of patients with proven OSA stated they would like to continue its use.
Effectiveness
The SomnoDent is a highly 
effective solution for some of the patients suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Its exceptional levels of patient acceptance and compliance as well as treatment efficacy are backed by a large body of clinical research.
91% of patients reported substantial improvement in sleep quality.
Other Benefits of the SomnoDent
- Travels well
- Sleep free from attachments
- Speak and drink while in use
- Makes NO noise
- Does not requires electricity
- No cumbersome head gear
- No consumable parts to replace
- Does not limit sleep positions
FDA Approval: Approved for both snoring and OSA
Date of FDA Approval: July 12, 2005
FDA Registration Number: K050592