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An Interview with Angel
Sleep Apnea and TMJ
Angel gives her account of improvements to sleep, pain reduction, and improvement in her ‘quality of life’. “All my aches and pains are gone. Pain free! Sleeping like a baby.” – Angel.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
More than just snoring
If you or your bed partner snores, you already know how disruptive it can be. But is can also be a sign of a life-threatening condition called Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
Dr. Billings has had great success in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea using one of a variety of oral devices. For patients who suffer from sleep apnea and for whom the CPAP machine is uncomfortable or impractical, we may have a solution.
CPAP Machine
Are you snoring, grinding your teeth or gasping for air at night? Do you suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, headaches or dry mouth? Many people who find themselves extremely fatigued during the day are suffering from Sleep Apnea – a life-threatening condition. Many sleep specialists will prescribe sleeping with a CPAP machine. This machine consists of an air pump and tight-fitting mask that must be worn all night. The CPAP delivers a consistent air pressure that keeps the person’s airway open, minimizing or eliminating snoring while the mask is on. But many people find the CPAP machine loud, bulky and uncomfortable – even claustrophobic!
Dr. Billings’ office can fit patients suffering from Sleep Apnea with one of a variety of oral devices that offer a comfortable option to the CPAP machine. These oral sleep appliances align the patient’s mouth to allow air to flow more easily without the need for masks or straps. And they allow you to talk and drink while wearing them. (No need to unstrap yourself from a machine to get a drink of water in the middle of the night!)
Apnea-Hypopnea Index
If you stop breathing for more than 10 seconds, you are at risk of death. Your Apnea-Hypopnea Index counts how many times every hour you stop breathing for 10 seconds or more.
Participating Medical Centers
Dr. Billings works with physicians at local hospitals and sleep centers to coordinate your care. You must be diagnosed with Sleep Apnea by a physician and receive a prescription for an oral device. Dr. Billings will take a maxillofacial CT scan to analyze the obstructions to your pharyngeal airway. He then will custom fit an appliance for you that prevents your oral airway from collapsing while you sleep.
An oral device is an affordable and comfortable alternative to the CPAP machine for the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
Testimonials
“Thank you for giving me back my life!”
– Patient
“This device can make a huge difference in your quality of life.”
– Terry Billings