Sapphire Herbst

The Crane Acrylic Herbst Appliance is comprised of upper and lower patient-specific acrylic splints, connected bilaterally via a telescoping Herbst mechanism that orients the jaw in a predetermined relationship. The Herbst mechanism allows the patient vertical and lateral range of movement while the jaws are oriented in the biting relationship determined by the positioning of the mechanism as it connects to the respective arch splint. The appliance positions the lower jaw forward and open vertically from its normal location which causes a protrusion in the mandible in relation to the maxilla. The appliance aims through this repositioning (which is temporary while the appliance is being used) to increase air exchange, and to reduce snoring and apnea by increasing pharyngeal space. The prescribing dentist determines the repositioning of the mandible through a patient-specific protrusive bite registration taken by the dentist. The dentist is also able to adjust the mandible’s position by altering the Herbst mechanism, and/or adjusting the acrylic portion of the device. The Acrylic Splint Herbst Appliance is removable by the patient, and is worn while sleeping to support the mandible in a forward position determined by the prescribing dentist.