NightLase Laser Treatment for Sleep Apnea & Snoring in Leesburg, VA
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Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects a number of people. Sleep apnea can be classified as either central sleep or obstructive sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea is characterized by respiratory efforts failing to occur while the individual is sleeping, whereas obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the upper airway either partially or fully closes, however the individual continues to make efforts to breathe.
Many people are made aware that they snore or may have sleep apnea after being told by their partner. Other symptoms that are commonly attributed to sleep apnea include:
- Feeling exhausted upon waking up
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Daytime sleepiness
- Sexual dysfunction
- Forgetfulness
- Weight gain
- Depression
While these are all frustrating side effects to have to deal with, untreated sleep apnea can also lead to serious health issues developing, including heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure. Sleep apnea and/or noisy breathing among children has also been linked to behavioral problems, such as ADHD.
At Lansdowne Dental, we offer a variety of treatment options for correcting sleep apnea disorders, one of which is with Fotona’s NightLase® therapy. We are committed to working diligently to help you receive the care you deserve so you can sleep well and enjoy good physical health. To learn more about Fotona NightLase Laser Treatment for sleep apnea or snoring, please refer to the following.
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Fotona NightLase Process
The two most common laser treatments for sleep apnea are laser snoring treatments (NightLase) and laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP). The biggest difference between NightLase and LAUP is that NightLase does not require the use of a CO2 laser for tissue removal, but instead uses heat. Because of this approach, NightLase provides a less invasive, more comfortable and safer treatment alternative for patients who have sleep apnea.
Before your sleep apnea can be treated, it will be necessary to schedule an initial evaluation, during which we will thoroughly review your medical and dental history and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Please note: NightLase is not a viable cure or treatment option for patients who have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It is, however, a safe, non-invasive and fast method for improving the quality of an individual’s sleep, with up to 50% improvement after just one treatment.
One of the benefits of NightLase is that it reduces the need for administration of a local anesthetic, although patients with dental phobia or who have trouble sitting still for extended periods of time may still be given dental sedation to remain calm while the NightLase procedure is being performed. Once you are comfortable, the NightLase treatment will begin by heating the collagen fibers in the deeper tissue using a gentle, superficial laser light. This process of stimulating the fibers starts the neocollagensis process, which restores the elasticity and strength of the soft tissues in the palate. Once the airway has become more open, the patient will have an easier time breathing while sleeping, which should in turn reduce or eliminate snoring. The patient’s overall ability to breathe while sleeping will also significantly improve, because oxygen can more easily travel through the airway, as it is no longer obstructed by the soft palate. The preheating and laser treatment can both typically be completed within 30 minutes.
Following your NightLase procedure, you will need to return for two additional sessions within two months, although many patients experience a significant improvement following their first procedure. Once your third and final treatment session is complete, the effects of the treatment should last approximately one to two years, after which therapy can be repeated.
Although NightLase can be very effective in reducing snoring, in many cases it will be necessary to take a more holistic approach to correcting sleep apnea or snoring, which may include making a range of lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eliminating alcohol, quitting smoking, or changing your diet. For more serious cases of sleep apnea, a CPAP machine and/or specially designed oral appliance may also need to be worn while sleeping.
Meet Dr. Tracey Nguyen
Dr. Tracey Nguyen received her Doctor of Dental Surgery, Magna cum laude, at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical College of Virginia. Dr. Nguyen is trained in all phases of implant dentistry, and has received extensive training in cosmetic dentistry. She is also a manuscript/review editor for the Academy of General Dentistry.
Benefits of NightLase for Sleep
In addition to helping you return to enjoying a full night’s sleep, there are a broad range of benefits to the use of Fotona NightLase for sleep apnea, including the following:
- Non-invasive
- Safe
- FDA-approved
- Anesthetic is not required
- Recovery period is minimal
- Although there is a small possibility of mild burns or blisters occurring, if they do, they will typically resolve within a few days
- Less operator fatigue, which reduces treatment time and improves overall results
How Much Does Treatment Cost?
At Lansdowne Dental Care, we are committed to providing you and your entire family with quality dental care that you can afford. While we cannot guarantee that the cost of treatment will be covered under your dental insurance plan, we are happy to contact your provider to help you maximize your benefits. When considering the cost of treatment, it is important to keep in mind that the effects of NightLase typically last for 12-24 months, after which another round of treatment will be necessary. Please note: our office is happy to discuss possible payment plans for this procedure. We accept Cash, Check, or Credit card, as well as 3rd party financing options.
Changing Lives by Creating Beautiful Smiles
If you have been exhibiting signs of sleep apnea or have noticed any of the symptoms commonly attributed to sleep apnea detailed previously, it is important to have an evaluation performed as soon as possible. Doing so can significantly improve your overall quality of life and reduce your risk of developing more serious and otherwise preventable health issues.
If you are scheduled for a NightLase treatment or have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or snoring while sleeping, or if you have any questions about the procedure, please contact us at 703.723.7810.
At Lansdowne Dental Care, we treat every patient like a member of our family and are committed to changing lives by creating beautiful smiles!