Dr. Homann is a general dentist who provides oral appliances that assist with sleep related breathing disorders, such as sleep apnea and snoring. After your physician (MD) diagnoses your specific issue, Dr. Homann may be able to help.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes lapses in breathing during sleep. It can cause loud snoring, shallow breaths, and a poor night’s sleep. As a result, those with sleep apnea often wake up several times throughout the night and are not well-rested the next day. It is also often a nuisance for those who sleep in the presence of someone with sleep apnea, as they snore and gasp frequently and loudly throughout the night. However, cases of sleep apnea are not always audible. Some people who experience sleep apnea do not snore or gasp loudly or even remember waking up throughout the night. If this is the case, the sleep apnea may go undiagnosed for a long time.
What treatments are available?
For those with milder cases of sleep apnea, there are lifestyle changes that may help the condition such as changing sleeping positions, weight loss, or quitting habits that affect respiration such as smoking. The standard treatment for sleep apnea involves a device provided by your medical doctor known as Constant Positive Air Pressure or CPAP machines. These are machines that require patients to wear a mask which is connected to a hose that pumps air from the machine into the patient’s airway.
However, not all patients are compliant with CPAP treatment. These machines can be bulky and uncomfortable. Some people may have difficulty tolerating forced airflow or may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep with the mask on. Oral appliances are often less of a hassle and much less intrusive devices. They are usually much easier for patients to get used to.
In this case, it may be time to see a sleep apnea dentist.
How can a dentist help?
Sleep apnea dentists provide relief for those who suffer with sleep disordered breathing conditions by providing dental appliances which reposition the jaw to open up the airway and to allow for a more restful sleep. This device resembles a mouth guard and is only worn during sleep. Appliances vary, as each treatment is tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
Residents of Elk Grove Village, Itasca, Wood Dale, and surrounding areas with sleep apnea can rest assured that there is a solution in their backyard. Brian Homann, DDS is a trained sleep apnea dentist with customized treatment options for his patients. After obtaining a diagnosis from your physician, Dr. Homann will be happy to provide you with options to help with your sleep breathing disorder. A good night’s sleep is imperative for functionality, productivity, and overall happiness. Don’t let your sleep apnea or a loved one’s sleep apnea hinder you from enjoying life to the fullest. Visit Dr. Brian Homann to discuss your options for sleep apnea treatment!
