Size Doesn't Matter, Unless...

Kelly was first diagnosed with mild OSA, oxygen desaturations and a high arousal index in early 2006. After 4 years of struggling with CPAP she presented at my clinic to inquire about oral appliances, and eventually proceeded with a SomnodentTM. Kelly was successfully titrated and was quite satisfied with her new oral appliance and it’s ease of use, especially when contrasted to her experience with CPAP. I truly thought of Kelly as an example of a very successful outcome and Kelly herself felt likewise.

Somnodent by Somnomed

Four years later at a routine follow-up visit Kelly saw the RESMED NarvalTM appliance and was quite intrigued by it’s small size. She decided to have one made and the appliance was inserted two weeks later. Since she was a seasoned appliance wearer we started her at a fairly advanced position similar to the level of advancement she was accustomed to with her SomnodentTM.

Narval CC by RESMED

When Kelly returned for her first follow-up visit post insertion of her NarvalTM appliance, this is what she had to share with me; “This appliance is so much easier to wear than my old appliance”, “I can close my mouth easier” “It doesn’t feel as much of a mouthful”, “it’s much more comfortable”, I am wearing it all night rather than taking it out at 4 or 5 in the morning” and “I’m sleeping much better”.

Of course, I was very happy to hear how pleased Kelly was with her new NarvalTM appliance. But, what really resonated in my mind while I was listening to her was that perhaps  “Size doesn’t matter, unless you have to put it in your mouth!”.  

John Viviano BSc DDS D ABDSM