TAP – a new solution for snoring and sleep apnea...without the need for surgery or medications!

The TAP® (Thornton Adjustable Positioner®) is a custom oral appliance that treats sleep disordered breathing and reduces snoring, sleep apnea, and associated health risks without the need for surgery, medications, or other more cumbersome therapy.

The TAP® (Thornton Adjustable Positioner®) is an oral appliance similar to an athletic mouth guard that is worn while sleeping. Developed with advanced technology, it alleviates snoring and sleep apnea by holding the mandible forward during sleep to prevent the tongue and soft tissue of the throat from collapsing into the airway. The TAP is based on the same principle as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The airway must be open to allow air to pass through the throat.

The TAP device consists of an Upper Tray that fits over the upper teeth and a Lower Tray that fits over the lower teeth. A hook mechanism attached to the Upper Tray fits into a Socket attached to the Lower Tray and positions the lower jaw forward, preventing the soft tissue of the throat from collapsing and obstructing the airway.

The unique design of the TAP permits the patient to adjust the device and the degree to which the mandible is pulled forward. This allows the patient to be actively involved in the treatment of his/her own sleep-disordered breathing.

If a patient snores or has sleep apnea, they need the TAP. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends oral appliances, like the TAP, as a first line of treatment for mild and moderate sleep apnea and in cases of severe apnea when continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has not worked.

The TAP is manufactured by Airway Management, Inc., Dallas, Texas.