Changes in 3D nasal cavity volume after biomimetic oral appliance therapy in adults

Objective: In this study, the authors investigated 3D changes in nasal volume, to test the hypothesis that nasal cavity volume can be changed in adults.Methods: After obtaining informed consent, the authors undertook 3D cone-beam computerized axial tomographic (CBCT) scans of 11 consecutive adults (mean age: 37.9 years), before and after biomimetic oral appliance therapy (BOAT). The mean treatment time was 18.462.5 months. Volumetric reconstruction of the nasal cavity was undertaken, and the nasal volume was calculated in all cases. The findings were subjected to statistical analysis, using paired t-tests.Results: The mean nasal cavity volume was 41.9612.0 cm3 before treatment. After BOAT, the mean volume increased to 44.0612.7 cm3 (P50.022).Conclusions: These data support the notion that nasal cavity volume can be changed in adults. Use of BOAT might improve continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) compliance in adults diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), by increasing the nasal cavity volume and decreasing nasal airflow resistance.