Sleep Apnea

Millions of Americans snore and for a variety of reasons, In some cases, simple lifestyle changes can prevent or lessen snoring. These remedies include sleeping on your side instead of on your back, avoiding alcohol and other sedatives at bedtime, and maintaining a healthy body weight.

For others, snoring is an indication of a more serious sleep disorder known as Sleep Apnea. Those who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) actually stop breathing repeatedly during their sleep because of a blockage in the airway. Generally, the blockage is caused by a collapse of the soft tissue in the back of the mouth or throat.

Symptoms of sleep apnea include:

  • Waking up with a sore or dry throat
  • Loud snoring
  • Waking during the night gasping for air
  • Daily lethargy after a full nights rest
  • Morning headaches
  • Forgetfulness
  • Mood changes

Left untreated sleep apnea can lead to an increased risk of major systemic health concerns. Patient with sleep apnea are more prone to to diabetes, stroke, and heart attacks, among other ailments. If you believe that you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

SomnoDent

Dr. Kirol treats sleep apnea patients using SomnoDent, an oral appliance therapy. The SomnoDent oral appliance is custom made to be comfortable and discreet, the purpose of which is to keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw and tongue, preventing a collapse from occurring.

SomnoDent treatment has also been shown to have a clinically significant impact in reducing patients blood pressure and has been predicted to reduce the risk of stroke. In addition, this blood pressure reduction was apparent in the early morning, which is the time of peak risk for a heart attack.

Occlusal Guard for TMJ Treatment (Night Guard)

Occlusal night guards are dental appliances that protect the teeth from damage done during sleep sometimes referred to as an occlusal splint, the night guard usually covers the top teeth.