Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition where the afflicted are not able to breathe properly while sleeping. In a study conducted at Stanford University in California, one out of three chronic, severe snorers were found to have had a harmful degree of sleep apnea. Throughout the night sufferers will often experience apneas (defined as the temporary inability to breathe) that may last as long as 40 seconds. This causes your brain to “wake you up” enough that you’ll move and can resume breathing. Most patients don’t know that they have this condition until they are observed by a spouse or sleeping partner. This means that most OSA sufferers are unaware of their condition and have just learned to live a life of fatigue.

You do not have to live this way – there are many treatments available for OSA.

At Smile On Dental Salon and Sleep Apnea Center, we specialize in the use of oral appliances for the successful treatment of sleep apnea and snoring.

How does an oral appliance work?
It’s actually quite simple. A device that is shaped much like a boxer’s bite guard, is placed in the mouth. It causes your jaw bone to sit a little further forward than when your jaw is at rest. The appliance will stabilize the lower jaw and tongue and reposition them in relation to the soft palate and uvula - making room for the air you need to breathe easily and sleep better!

Sounds great! How do I get an oral appliance?
First, you will need a referral from your doctor. If you do not currently have a physician, we work with several referring physicians in the area and would be happy to share their names and contact information with you!

Once you have a proper medical order, call Smile On at 773-525-5545 to schedule your appointment.

When you come to Smile On for sleep apnea treatment, our professional staff will perform an assessment to determine if an oral appliance is indicated. It you are elligible for treatment, we will then take a dental impression and bite registration which will be used in the creation of a personalized, FDA-approved appliance just for you.

We will schedule a follow-up appointment where we train you on the proper use of the appliance, including care and maintenance.

Once you have adjusted to your new oral appliance, you’ll make one more visit to your referring physician so they can evaluate the newer, better-rested, happier you!

Our Patients Know That OSA Can Be Treated Without CPAP:

Dear Paul,
The oral appliance that you have supplied to me has helped me in all facets of my work and life. I no longer need to wear an uncomfortable CPAP when I sleep and it also makes traveling so much easier. I do not need to nap during the day and can drive for longer periods of time without my eyes wanting to close due to exhaustion from not getting a full REM sleep. If you ever need anyone to discuss your appliance results with me feel free to have them give me a call as I am a very happy patient.

Thanks,
M.H.

I found Dr. Poncza's office while eating at a nearby restaurant. Prior to meeting with Dr. Poncza I had been prescribed a CPAP machine for my obstructive sleep apnea. I used the CPAP consistently for 6 months and, although I was having more restful sleep, I could not get used to wearing the mask. (I tried every style from full-face to nasal pillows) Towards the end of my CPAP trial, I found myself waking to the air hose wrapped around my neck - definitely not a comfortable way to wake up. I found Dr. Poncza to be very knowledgable about obstructive sleep apnea and he was able to discuss my options for oral appliances. I really appreciated his manner in not pushing me towards one specific brand, but rather explaining each device and their specific benefits. Jessica was unbelievably helpful in navigating the insurance world. Through her help, I was able to obtain a single case afreement with Dr. Poncza to cover the majority of the costs. Once I received my appliance Dr. Poncza and his staff worked with me to ensure the fit was perfect and I was comfortable using it. My sleep has improved and I feel much more at ease at night. I am very happy with my experience at Smile On Dental Salon and have recommended Dr. Poncza to my friends and family.

E.L.

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