Dr. Ron Perkins offers the TAP® (Thornton Adjustable Positioner) appliance with his specific design changes as treatment for sleep apnea and snoring. His design changes have significantly eliminated serious side effects. Only a very few other dentists are utilizing these design changes. Wearing the appliance himself, Dr. Perkins is continually evaluating its comfort and effectiveness. Its design is quite similar to an athletic mouth guard and is worn while sleeping. Developed with advanced dental technology, the TAP reduces sleep apnea associated health risks without the need for surgery, medications or other more cumbersome therapy.

The TAP appliance is simple and effective
The TAP is so simple to use that it is now helping snorers and their families get to sleep all night long. Here are the advantages of using the appliance:

• TAP immediately stops snoring for over 95% of wearers.
• TAP is comfortable to use, especially with improved design.
• TAP treats symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea and TMD.
• TAP is inexpensive compared to alternative treatments.
• TAP does not require surgery, which is usually unsuccessful.

The TAP appliance prevents soft throat tissues from collapsing and obstructing your airway. Each appliance is custom molded for each patient from his/her dental impressions and is comfortable for patients to wear. It snaps easily over upper and lower teeth and its adjustable connecting post helps reposition the mandible to clear the upper airway and improve breathing. Dr. Perkins' design offers posterior support and balance to improve TMJ or jaw joint comfort and stability.

Dr. Perkins knows sleep apnea firsthand
Dr. Perkins, who is a practicing orthodontist at Team Perkins Orthodontics, was diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Conventional treatment, like the CPAP and BIPAP devices did not prove effective for him. He then tried the TAP appliance which held promise. Determined to find the best solution to OSA, Dr. Perkins did further research, training and specialization in OSA management. He made further improvements to the TAP appliance and transformed it into the extremely effective OSA treatment device that it is today.

During your first visit, Dr. Perkins will do a complete history and thorough oral exam including an evalution of jaw joint (TMJ) function. Dr. Perkins can determine at this first visit if you are a candidate for this oral appliance treatment.

Contact Dr. Perkins today to find out how you, too, can find relief from obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.