Sleep Apnea
OPTISLEEP Is a Custom Solution That Can Provide Invaluable Relief
Dr. Terrance Wolbaum in Aurora offers OPTISLEEP – a popular custom night guard – at our Aurora dental office. This device keeps the teeth slightly apart and repositions the jaw to keep the upper airway open as you sleep, preventing snoring and the brief awakenings that OSA sufferers can experience hundreds of times per night.
Although a custom mouthguard probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a sleep apnea solution, studies have shown that 90 percent of OPTISLEEP patients experience a vast improvement in their symptoms. Meanwhile, this durable device is designed using precise digital impressions for outstanding comfort, and will not obstruct your jaw movement. During an office visit, Dr. Wolbaum can determine if this solution is right for you.
OPTISLEEP vs. Other Treatments
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is one of the most common treatments for those with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. This device keeps the airway open by delivering a constant stream of pressurized air. Patients wear a mask during sleep, which is connected to a small pump that administers the air. Although it is often effective, many patients find this solution to be uncomfortable and cumbersome during travel. For many, custom mouth guards are a more comfortable and convenient alternative that provides the necessary relief.
Combination Therapy
Many patients find that the OPTISLEEP custom oral appliance or CPAP device alone is sufficient for alleviating obstructive sleep apnea symptoms. In some cases, however, oral appliance therapy is combined with CPAP if either individual treatment fails to provide results. Your doctor may also recommend sleeping in various positions to find one that works best for you.
Surgery
If noninvasive treatments have failed, we can refer you to a specialist. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. During this procedure, a surgeon removes excess tissue from the airway. This treatment is especially effective for reducing snoring, but it should only be used as a last resort.
How Can A Custom Mouthpiece Help Me Sleep and Protect My Health?
Besides snoring and fatigue, what are the other health issues associated with OSA?
Schedule a Consultation Today
Do you often feel tired in spite of what you believe was a full night's sleep? Does your partner complain about snoring throughout the night? To find out if sleep apnea is to blame, schedule a consultation at our Aurora dental practice. Dr. Terrance Wolbaum may have the solution you need, and can refer you to a specialist if your needs are complex.
Our practice believes that all patients should have access to the high-quality care they deserve. We accept most insurance plans, and we offer flexible financing solutions such CareCredit®. Pioneer Hills Dental can schedule early morning appointments and extended hours to help make your appointment a comfortable fit for your busy life. To learn more about sleep apnea treatment – or to schedule a consultation at our Aurora practice – contact us online or call us at:
(303) 766-8811
Do I have obstructive sleep apnea?
Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Individuals with sleep apnea may present a number of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Sore Throat upon Waking
- Gasping for Air
- Chronic Headaches
- Daytime Sleepiness
- Difficulty Focusing
- Loud Snoring
- Irritability
- Chronic Fatigue
Diagnosing Sleep Apnea
If you are experiencing symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, Dr. Wolbaum can take steps to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend a solution:
Dental Consultation
Depending on his findings, such as a high blood pressure reading, Dr. Wolbaum may recommend a sleep study. He will refer you to a sleep medicine specialist who can perform a sleep study to confirm whether you are suffering from sleep apnea.
Sleep Study
Depending on his findings, Dr. Wolbaum may recommend treatment right away. He may also refer you to a sleep medicine specialist, who can perform a sleep study to confirm whether you are suffering from sleep apnea.
"I Highly Recommend Pioneer Hills Dental."
Nicholas Gallardo
2020
Flawless experience from start to finish! Dr. Wolbaum's practice is clean, professional, transparent, and he and the staff truly care about their patients. They welcomed me in like family even amidst a global pandemic!
Thank you to Dr. T (Terrence Wolbaum) for taking the time to really get to know me and my specific needs as a patient and for being so empathetic, educational, and genuine as a Doctor and community leader.
Angelina Rivera
2020
Dr. Wolbaum and the staff of Pioneer Hills Dental are absolutely amazing. From the minute that you walk into the door you are greeted by a friendly staff member. The dental hygienists are friendly, professional, and highly knowledgeable. Dr. Wolbaumv is very thorough in his analysis of your dental health and funny and friendly as well. My family and I always feel at home when coming for our dental appointments. All of the staff is readily available for assistance and their level of communication is unmatched. I highly recommend Pioneer Hills Dental for all of your dental needs.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea vs Central Sleep Apnea
There are two types of sleep apnea:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when the upper airway becomes physically blocked during sleep. When you become relaxed, the soft tissues collapse and fall over the airway, limiting oxygen supply. When the brain senses it is not receiving enough oxygen, it wakes the body enough to reopen the airway.
Central Sleep Apnea
Much less common than OSA, central sleep apnea (CSA) is a sleep disorder in which the brain fails to send signals to the breathing muscles. As a result, patients may not breathe for short periods of time during rest. Individuals with central sleep apnea need a specialist's attention.
Why Do Patients Prefer the OPTISLEEP Oral Appliance?
OPTISLEEP Is Effective
OPTISLEEP is a custom-made device that reduces snoring and alleviates uncomfortable symptoms. This two-piece mouth guard keeps the airway open and prevents the base of the tongue from obstructing the throat.
Oral Devices Are More Comfortable
An oral device is one of the most comfortable treatments available for obstructive sleep apnea, especially when compared to CPAP. OPTISLEEP is also much easier to travel with - just pack it in a small toiletry bag and you're ready to go.
OPTISLEEP Is Affordable
OPTISLEEP is more affordable than CPAP devices. In addition, special cleaning equipment, which adds to the time and expense of using CPAP, is not required for oral appliances.
None of the Side-Effects of CPAP
Patients often complain that CPAP machines make them feel claustrophobic or dry out their nasal passages. OPTISLEEP presents none of these issues.
"Dr. Wolbaum and His Staff Are Caring, Efficient, and Professional."
Alijah Smith
2020
I always hated going to the dentist until I found Pioneer Hills. Dr. Wolbaum and his staff are caring, efficient, and professional. Their oral health services are excellent, and they are compassionate about your health. By far, the best experience!
Amanda Yip
2020
I’ve been to a few other dental places before I found Pioneer Hills Dental and haven’t gone anywhere else since! The staff here truly cares about their patients. They are always thorough in their cleaning and are honest in their recommendations.
