Sleep Disorders

We are all aware that snoring can be troublesome.  Snoring can cause health problems and stress in relationships.  While the snorer continues to sleep, others around them are left sleepless by the constant noise.

A more debilitating common sleep disorder problem is reduction of air intake and stoppage of breathing caused by blockage of the airway.  This happens when the tongue falls back and the tissues of the back of the throat collapse.  It’s called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) by the medical profession.  It can cause serious health problems including depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat and heartbeat and heart rate, coronary artery (blood supply to the heart) disease, and strokes.
 
A major problem cause by both snoring and OSA is fatigue and sleepiness.  These have a major effect on one’s productivity and ability to function successfully in life.  A survey by the Gallup organization indicates that as many as 65 million Americans suffer with a sleep disorder and that 32% of the 65 million reported excessive daytime sleepiness that can interfere with their routine.

How can a dentist help?

Unfortunately, many people cannot tolerate the usual treatment for sleep disorders, i.e., an air mask that fits over the nose and mouth that blows high-pressure air down the throat (called a CPAP).   We offer a simple and workable alternative for those who cannot tolerate the CPAP: custom-made mouthpieces.  These change the way the teeth mesh, thereby opening the airway at the back of the throat and allowing the patient to get air when he sleeps.
 
Our office will design and create a custom mouthpiece for each patient.  It’s one of the most advanced mouthpieces available in the dental field to treat sleep apnea and snoring.  In addition to setting the proper bite, it is designed to give you maximum air intake, eliminate snoring and reduce sleep apnea.

The appliance is worn over the upper teeth while sleeping.  Its shape and size is similar to an upper orthodontic retainer.  It’s small, fits easily, is comfortable to wear and very effective.  For anyone who is suffering from snoring, sleep apnea or other sleep disorders, the custom mouthpieces are a viable alternative.

Evaluating the Problem 

Correctly evaluating sleep disorder problems for treatment requires a complete head and neck examination, health history, appropriate x-rays, evaluation of any sleep studies a patient has undergone and testing with the FDA approved computer that evaluates the airway blockage.

Sleep Disorder Symptoms

• Snoring
• Stoppage of breathing while sleeping (10 seconds or more)
• Fatigue when rising or during the day
• Need for naps
• Morning headaches
• Headaches in the middle of the night

Take Action Now

Get more vital oxygen into your lungs with every breath and a better night’s sleep for you and for those you love.

If you suffer from sleep disorders, such as those described, schedule a no charge consultation with Dr. Greif or Dr. Ruvinov at (314) 487-0052.