Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea In Lincolnshire, IL

Most people don’t think of dentists when seeking snoring cessation or sleep apnea treatment. However, dental sleep medicine is a progressive and effective discipline that’s helping countless individuals realize more restful, quiet, fulfilling sleep.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a life threatening condition in which the brain is deprived of oxygen. This can contribute to cardiovascular disease, resulting in heart attack or stroke.

Snoring is the sound caused by vibrating oral tissues. Sleep apnea involves a lapse in breathing, which occurs when airflow is completely cut off during sleep.. During sleep, your muscles relax and the lower jaw can shift backward. When it does, soft tissues in the mouth and throat interfere with airflow.

For years, and even now, CPAP has been recommended for sleep apnea treatment. The continuous positive air pressure machine pumps air into the body in a solid stream, so soft tissues can’t collapse. However, some people dislike CPAP. The mask and tube on the machine can feel confining. In some cases, CPAP does not fit properly, so it’s not effective. The sound produced by the main unit can also disrupt sleep. If you’re CPAP intolerant, or if you don’t want to try CPAP, consider dental sleep medicine.

Dr. Sokol can create a custom-fitted oral appliance to hold your jaw slightly forward while you sleep. The jaw position prevents soft tissues from blocking airflow, thus alleviating obstructive sleep apnea and snoring.

If you feel chronically tired or your sleeping partner complains about your snoring, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sokol at Village Green Dentistry. Our Lincolnshire dental office is conveniently located for patients who live in the Chicago North Shore suburbs of Lake Forest, Buffalo Grove, Vernon Hills, Libertyville, and surrounding areas.

Sleep disorders increase the risk of depression, fatigue, poor job performance, heart attack, and premature death.