TAP™ Oral Appliance Treatment in Lake Oswego

Welcome to Aesthetic Dentistry of Lake Oswego, where your oral health and well-being are our top priorities. At our Lake Oswego, OR, practice, we’re proud to offer cutting-edge solutions for a variety of dental and sleep concerns, including TAP (Thornton Adjustable Positioner) oral appliance treatment. Led by the experienced and caring Dr. Larry Bowden, we’re dedicated to helping our patients achieve their best sleep through effective dental sleep medicine options, improving their overall health and quality of life.

As a holistic dentist, Dr. Bowden understands that the quality of your sleep profoundly affects your whole-body wellness. Treating sleep issues like snoring and sleep apnea is a core part of our mission to address systemic health, not just your dental symptoms.

If you’re seeking effective treatment for sleep apnea or snoring issues, and you are a TAP appliance candidate, our TAP oral appliance treatment might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Contact us at (503) 675-7300 to learn more about how we can enhance your health and transform your daily life, or keep reading.

The TAP (Thornton Adjustable Positioner) Device Explained

The TAP (Thornton Adjustable Positioner) device is a specialized oral appliance used to treat sleep-related breathing disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic snoring. It’s designed to help individuals breathe more freely and comfortably during sleep by repositioning the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open.

Consultation

The TAP oral appliance treatment process typically begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Bowden. He’ll conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if you have symptoms of sleep-related breathing disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea or chronic snoring. This may involve discussing your sleep patterns, reviewing your medical history, and potentially referring you to a sleep specialist or for a sleep study.

Dr. Bowden will explain the benefits of using the TAP appliance and discuss its suitability for your specific condition. Based on the assessment, your provider will create a personalized treatment plan, which may include the TAP appliance as the recommended solution.

Design and Fabrication

Once you and Dr. Bowden decide to move forward with TAP oral appliance treatment, the next step involves designing and fabricating the device. We’ll take precise dental impressions of your upper and lower teeth. 

Using these dental impressions, a dental laboratory designs the TAP appliance to ensure it fits your mouth comfortably and securely. The device consists of upper and lower trays interconnected by an adjustable mechanism. The TAP device is meticulously designed to fit comfortably within your mouth, allowing you to sleep without discomfort or irritation. 

Fitting and Adjustment

Once the TAP device is ready, your Lake Oswego dentist will provide the appliance and guide you on its proper insertion and removal. He’ll work with you to fine-tune the TAP device to your comfort and needs. 

Monitoring Progress

We’ll schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the TAP device continues to work effectively. After the initial fitting and adjustment, the TAP oral appliance treatment process includes ongoing management and follow-up.

Compliance and Regular Use

To experience the full benefits of the TAP device, it’s essential to use it regularly as directed by Dr. Bowden. Consistent use is key to improving sleep quality and addressing sleep-related breathing issues.

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your TAP device daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild, non-abrasive toothpaste. Gently scrub the appliance to remove any debris or residue. Rinse it thoroughly with cool water before use.
• Keep It Dry: After cleaning, make sure the TAP appliance is completely dry before storing it. Moisture can lead to bacterial growth and wear over time.
• Storage: Store your TAP device in its provided case when not in use. This protects it from dust and prevents accidental damage. Ensure the case is clean and dry as well.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Don’t use harsh chemicals, bleach, or alcohol-based solutions to clean the TAP device, as these can damage the materials.
• Inspect Regularly: Check your TAP device for signs of wear, damage, or loose parts. If you notice any issues, contact us for an evaluation and possible adjustments or replacements.
• Keep Pets Away: To prevent damage or misplacement, store your TAP appliance out of reach of pets, who may be attracted to the dental materials.
• Traveling: When traveling, always carry your TAP device with you in its protective case. It’s a portable appliance that can be used while away from home, ensuring consistent treatment.
• Follow Provider Instructions: Adhere to the guidance provided by Dr. Bowden regarding adjustments and usage. Regularly scheduled follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring and maintaining your treatment.
• Avoid Chewing: Do not chew on your TAP device. It’s designed for sleep therapy and not as a dental guard. Chewing on the appliance may lead to premature wear and tear.
• Keep It Secure: Ensure that the TAP device fits securely in your mouth and that any adjustable components are properly engaged. Loose fittings can affect the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Mouth Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene to keep your mouth and TAP device clean. Brush and floss your teeth regularly, and rinse your mouth before inserting the appliance.
• Replacement Parts: If any components of your TAP device, such as straps or connectors, become damaged or worn, contact us for replacement parts to maintain its’ optimal function.

Are you ready to experience restful, uninterrupted sleep and improve your overall well-being? At Aesthetic Dentistry of Lake Oswego, we’re here to help you with innovative TAP (Thornton Adjustable Positioner) oral appliance treatment. 

If you’re seeking a comfortable, non-invasive solution for sleep apnea or snoring issues, contact us today at (503) 675-7300 or schedule a consultation online. Discover more about TAP oral appliance treatment and how it can benefit you. Serving new and returning patients from Lake Oswego and surrounding areas such as Portland, Tualatin, Wilsonville, Beaverton, Tigard, and Sherwood, OR.