Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Are you, or a loved one…

…. a loud and/or regular snorer?

…..been observed to briefly stop breathing, or gasp for air while sleeping?

…..ever fallen asleep sitting, reading, watching TV or driving

If you have one or more of these symptoms, you are at higher risk for sleep apnea.

It is estimated that 23 million Americans suffer sleep apnea. Sleep apnea, left untreated, can lead to high blood pressure, chronic heart failure, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. Sleep apnea is also associated with Type 2 diabetes, and few people are aware of the connection with sleep apnea and obesity. Researchers have discovered that improper sleep appears to be as much a factor in obesity as too much food and too little exercise!

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that oral appliances be the first treatment option for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea. For those patients with moderate to severe sleep apnea, a CPAP device is often prescribed. The device forces air up the nose to open the airway.

While the CPAP is successful, unfortunately over half of the people stop using the device after one year.

In our office, we offer the EMA appliance. The EMA works by opening the bite and gently advancing the mandible (jaw) with elastic straps to increase the airway space. This oral appliance fits entirely within the mouth, and, unlike a CPAP, doesn’t use electricity or make noise that would bother a sleeping partner. EMA is FDA approved for the treatment of both obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.

The EMA offers advantages not found in other oral appliances:

• You can talk and even drink water while wearing it.
• It is completely free of metal and the EMA elastic straps are latex-free.
• You can easily change the EMA elastic straps yourself….no additional trips to the dentist are needed.

If sleep apnea is a concern of yours, or if you would like to discuss your treatment options, call us today at (201) 653-2288. A custom-made sleep appliance may just be your answer to a better night’s sleep!

Make an Appointment Today

If you are suffering from sleep apnea, don’t wait to get help. It is a very serious condition that can have harmful effects. Feel free to call our practice today at (201) 653-2288 for more information regarding our sleep apnea treatment options. We know that sleep is an important part of your health, so beginning treatment is crucial. We are committed to providing cost-effective treatment to all of our patients.