AIRWAY MANAGEMENT & FLOA APPLIANCE
FLOA is a tailor-designed dental appliance the dentist prescribes to treat snoring, breathing-related sleep disorders and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Obstructive sleep apnoea is a condition that occurs when the muscles at the end of the throat relax and, as a result, inhibit normal breathing. OSA is characterised by intermittent snoring and pauses in between breathing; these breathing pauses can occur thirty times or more over an hour. FLOA is recommended for people with mild to moderate sleep apnoea who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy or surgery.
FLOA is a travel-friendly appliance that can be used on the plane when you are unable to use a CPAP machine. However, patients do have the option of alternating between treatments. Sometimes, FLOA is a better option, especially for people living in remote areas with limited access to electricity.
How does FLOA work?
The FLOA device, which is made up of two parts, reduces apnoea and improves the patient’s breathing by opening the upper airway. As a result, the lower jaw is shifted forward to help the tissue at the end of the throat remain more relaxed. In addition, the tongue’s base will not collapse and obstruct the airway.
Why do I need FLOA?
Untreated sleep apnoea can be detrimental to the patient’s health, leading to heart disease, arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, stroke, diabetes, fatigue and depression. Sleep apnoea also stirs up memory problems, the poor secretion of hormones and trouble concentrating.
Fortunately, FLOA is a custom-made appliance made by a dentist specialising in sleep medicine. As a result, FLOA is highly successful in minimising snoring than most thermoplastic dental devices.
FLOA, A Personalised Approach for Maximum Comfort
The unique design of FLOA begins at the dentist’s practice. Dr Kemp is well-versed in dental sleep. She starts by performing an intraoral exam, assessing the teeth, gums and soft tissue of the mouth. Then, by examining the inside of your mouth, she will be able to tell whether you need additional dental work such as fillings, extractions or the placement of cosmetic devices to correct the bite. Afterwards, she makes an imprint and takes measurements of the inside of the mouth. Finally, with the imprints, Dr Kemp can create the oral device using computer-aided design and manufacturing technology.