With all of the information released in recent years, that fact that almost half of the American adult population suffers from some form of gum disease may come as little surprise to some. Yet another lesser known medical concern is also plaguing a good number of Americans. According to the Journal of American Medicine, nearly 1 in 5 people in the U.S have mild-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA robs you of much more than just a good night of sleep; it can also lead to high blood pressure and increase your risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke. If you suffer from sleep apnea in Jacksonville, FL, your best source of relief from this condition may very well be the same provider you would turn to for gum disease treatment.
The Problems with Standard OSA Treatments
Many view the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine as the preferred method of treatment for OSA. Yet many of those dealing with this condition find a CPAP have difficulty becoming accustomed to wearing the accompanying mask while sleeping. Other treatment methods involve surgery to remove your tonsils, adenoids, and any excess tissue from the top of your throat. Yet if you are looking for a less-invasive way to combat you OSA, Dr. Gielincki can provide you with it.
The TAP 3®
A Thornton Adjustable Positioner 3 is a device designed to keep your airway from collapsing during the night while you sleep. It works by holding the lower jaw in position throughout the night, which prevents the soft tissue in the throat from closing off your airway. You simply adjust the device to the ideal fit while in your mouth, and then lay back and let it do its work. Users have found the TAP 3® to be extremely effective at eliminating the common side effects of OSA, such as:
- Snoring
- Insomnia
- Daytime drowsiness
Relief from OSA need not come at the expense of your comfort. Dr. Gielincki has the resources and expertise needed to fit you with an oral device that will help you breathe easier at night and get you back to enjoying restful sleep once again. To learn more about the effectiveness of our OSA treatment, schedule an appointment or contact our office today.
