Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea Therapy

According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), more than 18 million Americans have sleep apnea. The NSF also estimates that sleep apnea is under diagnosed, which means that number is probably much higher! Dr. Vinings uses the TAP appliance to treat sleep apnea. This easy-to-use sleep appliance restores healthy breathing and restful slumber. Oral appliance therapy also diminishes snoring, which often accompanies sleep apnea.

What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a potentially dangerous condition in which a person repeatedly stops breathing for periods of 10 seconds or longer. The brain senses lack of oxygen and tells the body to wake up. Sufferers may awaken completely or enter a lighter stage of sleep.

Why is sleep apnea harmful?
Sleep apnea greatly reduces periods of deep sleep that are necessary to recover from daytime activity, which results in a continuous state of sleep deprivation. Additionally, due to these repeated lapses in breathing, the brain of a sleep apnea sufferer receives less oxygen saturation than is necessary for normal health and function. This can lead to cardiovascular disease, heart problems, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and sexual dysfunction.

• Snore loudly, frequently, and disturb the sleep of others
• Have been told that you stop breathing during sleep
• Frequently feel tired or fatigued upon awakening and during the day
• Nod off or fall asleep while driving a vehicle
• Doze or nod off while sitting and reading, watching TV, or talking to someone
• Doze while sitting inactively in a public place such as a theater or meeting
• Have had multiple accidents at work, home, or while driving
• Have high blood pressure

If you have two or more of these symptoms, you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to call our office for a sleep apnea consultation.

How does Dr. Vinings treat sleep apnea and snoring?
Dr. Vinings is an active member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) and is experienced in resolving sleep apnea and snoring. He trained under Dr. Ira Shapira in Chicago, one of the nation's foremost experts on these conditions, and uses sleep apnea and snoring appliance therapy, specifically the TAP Appliance, to give patients the healthy slumber they deserve.

How does the TAP Appliance work?
TAP stands for Thornton Adjustable Position. It's a comfortable, easy-to-use sleep apnea and snoring appliance that holds the jaw slightly forward. Air passageways remain open to alleviate sleep apnea and diminish snoring. Dr. Vinings and our entire team will work to resolve your snoring and sleep apnea and let you get the peaceful rest you deserve!