4921 State St 26 E #100, Lafayette, IN 47905
Stop Snoring With Nightlase®
If you struggle with snoring or sleep apnea, one treatment option we offer is the NightLase® system. Provided by our dentists, Dr. Shane T. Cope and Dr. Melinda Bodine, NightLase® uses gentle laser technology to tighten the tissues of the airway. This process helps reduce or eliminate obstructions that contribute to snoring and sleep apnea symptoms.
To learn more about NightLase® treatment in Lafayette, Indiana, we invite you to call Highland Creek Family Dental East today.
Causes and Risks of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder marked by interruptions and pauses in breathing during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by obstructions in the airway, such as the tongue rolling back in the throat or collapsed tissues in the airway. Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to several serious health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure and liver problems.
Understanding Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Sleep apnea must be diagnosed by a sleep physician. We recommend that you talk to our Dentists, as well as your physician, if you suffer from the symptoms of sleep apnea. Common signs of sleep apnea include:
- Extreme drowsiness during the day
- Personality changes and irritability
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Snoring
- Waking up with a very dry or sore throat
- Frequent morning headaches
Sleep apnea treatment may depend on the severity of the condition. If you suffer from mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, our Dentists may recommend a simple oral appliance. The appliance works to treat obstructive sleep apnea by fitting over your teeth and keeping your airway open while you sleep. It can work by preventing the tongue from blocking the air passage or by holding your jaw in a position that prevents airway blockages during sleep. For more information on sleep apnea treatment, we welcome you to call or visit our dental practice today. We are committed to helping you improve your health!
FAQs About Nightlase®
Q. How effective is Nightlase® in treating sleep apnea?
A. Nightlase® can be highly effective for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. It helps tighten the tissues in the airway, which reduces airway obstructions and snoring. Many patients report significant improvement in their sleep quality after treatment.
Q. Are there any risks or side effects of Nightlase® treatment?
A. Nightlase® is a minimally invasive treatment with few risks. Some patients may experience mild discomfort, such as a sore throat or mild swelling, which usually resolves within a few hours after the procedure. It is a safe option for most people with sleep apnea or snoring issues.
Q. How many Nightlase® treatments will I need for optimal results?
A. Most patients require three Nightlase® treatments, spaced about two weeks apart, for the best results. Each session typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes, and many patients start noticing improvements after just one session. However, results may vary depending on the severity of the condition.
Q. Is Nightlase® a permanent solution for snoring and sleep apnea?
A. While Nightlase® provides significant relief from snoring and sleep apnea symptoms, it is not a permanent solution. Periodic maintenance treatments may be needed to maintain results and continue to reduce snoring and airway obstructions.
Q. Can Nightlase® be combined with other treatments for sleep apnea?
A. Yes, Nightlase® can be combined with other sleep apnea treatments, such as oral appliances or CPAP therapy, for enhanced results. Our dentists at Highland Creek Family Dental East will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.