What Is the Vivos System?
Vivos is a family of custom oral appliances used to address snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. As part of dental sleep medicine and sleep apnea treatment in Naples, FL, Vivos oral appliance therapy may help improve airflow by gently guiding the position of the teeth, dental arches, or jaw. However, results vary, and Vivos should not be presented as a guaranteed or permanent cure for sleep apnea.
Different Vivos appliances are designed for different needs. Options are available for adults with obstructive sleep apnea, while the DNA Appliance may be appropriate for certain children who have diagnosed sleep apnea and need orthodontic treatment. A careful evaluation helps determine whether Vivos is the right option for each patient.
Who May Be Considered for Vivos Treatment?
Whether Vivos oral appliance therapy is right for you depends on your specific needs and the type of appliance being considered. Because each device serves a different purpose, we begin with a careful evaluation.
For adults, we may consider:
- An established obstructive sleep apnea diagnosis
- The severity of the condition
- Dental and periodontal health
- Existing orthodontic or restorative needs
- Jaw and dental arch relationships
- Previous or current PAP treatment
- Other therapies already being used
- Whether the mouth can safely support the prescribed appliance
- An established obstructive sleep apnea diagnosis
- The severity of the condition
- Dental and periodontal health
- Existing orthodontic or restorative needs
- Jaw and dental arch relationships
- Previous or current PAP treatment
- Other therapies already being used
- Whether the mouth can safely support the prescribed appliance
The Vivos CARE appliance family includes FDA-cleared options for adults 18 and older with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Certain appliances may also be used for moderate to severe cases alongside positive airway pressure or myofunctional therapy when needed. The appropriate approach depends on your diagnosis and individual treatment needs.
Vivos DNA Treatment for Children
The Vivos DNA Appliance also has an FDA-cleared pediatric indication, but it is narrower than simply saying the device is for children who snore or have a narrow palate.
The pediatric clearance applies to children ages 6 through 17 who have been diagnosed with moderate or severe obstructive sleep apnea or qualifying snoring and who also need orthodontic treatment. That distinction is important.
A child who snores should not automatically receive a Vivos appliance. Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea requires appropriate medical diagnosis, and dental treatment should be considered within the child’s broader medical, orthodontic, and developmental picture.
Understanding the Process
Dental Sleep Medicine
The goal of the evaluation is to find the right sleep apnea treatment for you—not to make your needs fit a particular appliance.
Reviewing Your Diagnosis and History
For obstructive sleep apnea treatment, we begin with an established medical diagnosis and relevant sleep information. We also review previous treatment, current symptoms, CPAP use when applicable, dental history, and any orthodontic or jaw concerns.
Examination & Imaging
We evaluate the teeth, gums, restorations, bite, arch relationships, and other oral factors that may influence appliance selection. Existing dental problems may need attention before appliance treatment begins. Massa Dental Center has VaTech CBCT technology available when three-dimensional dental or craniofacial imaging is clinically useful.
Selecting the Appropriate Device
If Vivos is appropriate, the specific appliance will be selected according to the diagnosis and clinical findings. If another oral appliance, medical therapy, orthodontic treatment, or another form of care makes more sense, we’ll discuss those treatment options with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vivos
FAQs
Vivos is often discussed online using broad claims about sleep, breathing, jaw development, and permanent correction. These questions focus on what patients actually need to understand before deciding whether to pursue an evaluation.
Dr. Massa’s Vivos Training
Dr. James W. Massa is a Vivos Advocate Instructor and Integrated Provider, reflecting advanced training and involvement with the Vivos system and its approach to airway-focused care. His experience also includes educating other dental providers in the use and application of Vivos treatment protocols.
Dr. Massa was also presented with a Certificate of Recognition from the Vivos Institute for the FDA 510(k) Retrospective Study in 2021, recognizing his participation in this research initiative. His broader airway-focused education includes certification in the Buteyko Clinic Method, along with additional education in dental sleep medicine.
Together, this training and experience support Dr. Massa’s approach to evaluating airway health and incorporating airway considerations into comprehensive dental care.
Potential Effects and Trade-Offs
Vivos appliances interact with teeth, jaws, and oral structures, so treatment should include discussion of potential dental changes rather than presenting the device as consequence-free.
Depending on the appliance and patient, possible considerations can include:
- Tooth soreness
- Jaw or muscle discomfort
- Changes in tooth position
- Changes in the way the teeth meet
- Appliance breakage or wear
- Need for orthodontic management of dental changes
That does not mean every patient experiences these effects. It means there are legitimate reasons for professional monitoring throughout treatment. If a change occurs, we evaluate whether adjustment, additional dental treatment, or a different treatment strategy is appropriate.
Find Out Whether Vivos Is Appropriate for You
If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea or are interested in Vivos oral appliance therapy, a personalized evaluation can help you understand your options. We will review your diagnosis, dental health, and sleep concerns to determine which treatments may be appropriate. If Vivos is not the right fit, we will explain why and discuss other options for sleep apnea treatment in Naples, FL.
