Sleep apnea in Tenerife: improve your rest and your nighttime breathing
Sleep apnea causes repeated interruptions of breathing due to narrowing or blockage of the airway, with pauses (apneas) that affect oxygen and the quality of rest. It is a treatable disorder; one therapeutic option is the mandibular advancement device (DAM), which gently repositions the jaw to keep the pathway open during sleep.
What is sleep apnea?
Disorder in which the airways narrow or block during the night, causing breathing pauses of seconds to more than a minute and drops in oxygen with an impact on health and well-being.
When to go? Indicative symptoms
- Daytime sleepiness and morning tiredness.
- Snoring, dry mouth, headaches when waking up.
- Lack of concentration or memory, chronic fatigue, nocturia (getting up to urinate).
- Mood disturbances or lack of reflexes while driving.
Note: there is a high underdiagnosis; If you recognize yourself in these signs, ask for an assessment.
Causes and risk factors
Age; excess weight/obesity; anatomical features (narrow pathway, wide neck);
Diagnosis (tests and criteria)
This is prescribed by a doctor specializing in sleep medicine. It is confirmed with sleep studies: polysomnography or home monitoring depending on the case, quantifying respiratory events and severity.
Mandibular Advancement Device (DAM) Treatment
What is a DAM and how does it work?
The MAD is a custom-made intraoral device that is used during sleep. It gently repositions the jaw to keep the airway open, facilitating proper airflow and more restful rest. It is non-invasive, adjustable , and, for many patients, well-tolerated.
What about CPAP?
CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) is another treatment indicated by the specialist. When a patient does not tolerate CPAP, MAD is considered as a therapeutic alternative, within an individualized plan and always after medical diagnosis and coordination with the Sleep Unit.
Clinical protocol: detection → diagnosis → treatment → follow-up
1) Detection
Identification of symptoms (snoring, drowsiness, breathing pauses, awakenings) and referral for medical evaluation.
2) Diagnosis
Sleep study prescribed by the specialist (polysomnography or home monitoring).
3) Treatment
In eligible candidates, tailor-made MAD (sleep dentistry prescription). CPAP may be indicated based on medical judgment and tolerance.
4) Follow-up
Coordination between dentist and Sleep Unit to verify effectiveness, adjust the device and reinforce adherence.
Care and adherence
The success of the DAM requires constant use during sleep, periodic adjustments and joint monitoring with the Sleep Unit to optimize results and comfort.
Expected (realistic) results
With accurate diagnosis and good compliance, MAD improves airway patency, reduces respiratory events, and promotes more restful sleep. It is especially useful in patients who are unable to adapt to CPAP.
FAQ
Where should I go for the diagnosis?
A specialist doctor (pulmonology/neurophysiology/Sleep Unit), who will prescribe the sleep study.
What if I can’t tolerate CPAP?
The MAD is a non-invasive and adjustable alternative assessed by sleep dentistry, always within a plan coordinated with the Sleep Unit.
How many people are affected?
There is a high percentage of undiagnosed cases, so detection and monitoring are key to health.
The MAD is a non-invasive and adjustable alternative assessed by sleep dentistry, always within a plan coordinated with the Sleep Unit.
How many people are affected?
There is a high percentage of undiagnosed cases, so detection and monitoring are key to health.
Medical note: Educational information; it does not replace diagnosis.
Authorship and proofreading: Clínica Bajo’s Dentistry Team. Medical Check-up: Dr. Reyes
Update: 17/09/2025
