Up to 40% of the UK population snore, potentially disrupting the sleep of themselves and their partners. A proportion of them suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), which if severe may require medical intervention. 

Suitably trained GDPs, working in conjunction with properly accredited and skilled technicians, can successfully manage and alleviate the snoring of many of these patients. However, it is clinically and legally necessary to first identify patients at risk of OSA and appropriately refer them before treatment. 

This one-day seminar will provide the training which allows GDPs to start screening patients and from there offer them proven treatment for their snoring and improving them and their partners quality of life.

Aims, Objectives & Anticipated Outcomes 
At the end of the seminar delegates should be able to better understand: 
> The physical conditions related to snoring and OSA.
> Appropriate screening to help identify patients that would benefit from medical assessment.
> Documenting the assessment process and referring patients whose OSA falls out of the scope of practice of GDPs.
> Clinical requirements for prescribing, constructing and fitting anti-snoring devices.
> Practical methods of improving the success rate of treatment for snoring and OSA.
> Why many patients stop using Mandibular Adjustment Splints that are prescribed to treat their snoring and how to reduce this.
> Clinical advantages of using the Silensor-sl.
> Identifying appropriately trained and indemnified dental technicians/laboratories to manufacture anti-snoring devices.
> Appropriate follow up assessments to review signs and symptoms including TMJ monitoring maintenance of snoring devices.
> How to keep and maintain appropriate records.
> Indemnity and insurance requirements in production and supply of the Silensor-sl Mandibular Adjustment Splints (MAS).

Treatment for Snoring
Snoring is generated in the upper respiratory system. When the respiratory tract (pharynx) is cramped parts of the soft tissue start to vibrate and cause the snoring noise. Snoring, however, may also indicate underlying health issues such as Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) which require further medical management. 

Snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea are a mechanical process that may be mechanically treatable in a dental setting. Studies have shown that the advancement of the lower jaw considerably reduced snoring in over 80% of patients, with 50% seeing a reduction in their apnoea index. However, many patients find Mandibular Advancement Splints are bulky and uncomfortable to wear and so stop using them.

How the Silensor-sl Mandibular Advancement Splint solves the problem

The Silensor-sl was designed and developed by a dentist, Hans-Peter Kopp (Erkodent GmbH), to overcome these issues. 

The Silensor-sl has proven effectiveness in treating snoring and the symptoms of OSA and is more acceptable to patients because it: 

> is more comfortable due to being less bulky and providing maximum tongue space
> provides greater freedom of movement due to its unique connector system
> has a soft inner layer, to improve patient comfort
> is easily adjustable in increments of 1mm, to find the minimum effective advancement
> is completely metal-free