Are You Getting a Good Night’s Sleep?

You may need a sleep apnea dentist. The Gentle Dentist team assists in the diagnosis and treatment of obstructed sleep disorders, including sleep apnea and snoring. From Fotona NightLase® non invasive laser therapy to oral appliance therapy (OAT), Dr. Geetha Srinivasan provides effective sleep apnea treatments.

Sleep Disorders Can be Life-Threatening

Sleep disorders can have a profound effect on a person’s overall health. Lack of sleep can lead to accidents, poor school or job performance, memory problems, and mental disorders. Sleep disorders have been linked to heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

• Loud and chronic snoring almost every night
• Choking, snorting or gasping during sleep
• Pauses in breathing
• Waking up at night feeling short of breath
• Daytime sleepiness and fatigue, no mater how much time you spend in bed 

Other Warning Signs of Sleep Apnea

• Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
• Insomnia or nighttime awakenings
• Going to the bathroom frequently during the night
• Forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating
• Uncharacteristic moodiness, irritability, or depression
• Morning headaches
• Restless or fitful sleep

Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea

If you or a loved one has symptoms of a sleep disorder, the first step is to determine the diagnosis with a sleep study. We provide take home sleep studies at cost. The Gentle Dentist also works with sleep specialists to determine the treatment plan. As a sleep apnea dentist, we have in-office calibration devices including Rhinometer and Phayngometer to titrate/ adjust the device for maximum medical efficiency.

NightLase® Sleep Apnea Therapy

Fotona NightLase® therapy is a non-invasive, patient-friendly laser treatment. NightLase reduces the effects of sleep apnea and decreases the amplitude of snoring by contracting the collagen in the oral mucosa tissue. A full course of NightLase consists of three separate treatment sessions, scheduled three weeks apart. The final results of the treatment have been shown to last up to a year, and the therapy can be repeated. Contact Collegeville Trappe Gentle Dentist to learn more about NightLase therapy.

Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT)

Sleep apnea oral appliance therapy (OAT) is often used as an alternative to CPAP or ENT surgery. Ideal for those who have mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or who are noncompliant with CPAP therapy, OAT works by moving the lower jaw forward. This allows for more air to pass through the airway, which reduces or eliminates snoring and sleep apnea. We use Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD), which are usually reimbursed through many medical insurance plans. If you are experiencing any sleep apnea symptoms, please contact the Collegeville Trappe Gentle Dentist for an evaluation.

Take the Sleep Apnea Quiz

Do you think you might have sleep apnea? Take the sleep apnea quiz.