Abstract: A remote-controlled mandibular positioner for conveniently and precisely positioning the mandible during a sleep center or in-hospital study of patients who are candidates for mandibular positioner therapy. The remote-controlled mandibular positioner is used during sleep to perform a therapeutic titration study during full polysomnographic monitoring to determine the mandible position effective in treating obstructive sleep apnea. During the titration study, the mandible is advanced by a technician using the remote-controlled mandibular positioner until all apneas and hypopneas are eliminated. The titration study determines whether a mandibular positioner will be effective in treating a particular patient, and if so, the degree of mandibular ventral displacement required for effective treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

Abstract: A mandible repositioning appliance formed by an upper bite block and a lower bite block interconnected by an adjustable mechanism including a posterior section connected to the rear portion of the upper bite block and an anterior section connected to the front portion of the lower bite block and an adjustable interconnection between the anterior and posterior sections. Preferably the adjustable interconnection will include a double thread element rotation of which changes the relative positions of the posterior and interior sections axially of the appliance and abutments to define each incremental rotation of the element. The comfort of the wearer is further improved by using a heat sensitive material in the tooth retention sections and by permitting limited relative lateral movement between the bite blocks.