title: Fabrication technique for a custom face mask for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.
abstract: The development of the positive airway pressure custom mask (TAP-PAP CM) has changed the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. The TAP-PAP CM is used in continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP) and is fabricated from the impression of the face. This mask is then connected to a post screwed into the mechanism of the TAP3 (Thornton Anterior Positioner) oral appliance. This strapless CPAP face mask features an efficient and stable CPAP interface with mandibular stabilization (Hybrid Therapy). A technique with a 2-stage polyvinyl siloxane face impression is described that offers improvements over the established single-stage face impression. This 2-stage impression technique eliminates problems inherent in the single-stage face impression, including voids, compressed tissue, inadequate borders, and a rushed experience due to the setting time of the single stage. The result is a custom mask with an improved seal to the CPAP device.
authors.affiliation: Director, Restore TMJ & Sleep Therapy, The Woodlands, Texas; and Director, Inspire Research and Education, Houston, Texas. Electronic address: rprehn@tmjtexas.com.
authors.forename: Ronald S
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Prehn
authors.affiliation: Owner, Airway-Centered Dentistry, Shreveport, La; and Adjunct Professor, Sleep Fellowship Program, University Health, Shreveport, La.
authors.forename: Tom
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Colquitt
mesh_terms: D045422:Continuous Positive Airway Pressure / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005145:Face / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D006801:Humans; D009055:Mouth / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D020181:Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / Q000628:therapy*