Anti-Snoring Devices in Northbrook, IL

TIRED OF SNORING?
TIRED OF BEING TIRED?

You may have a snoring problem or even Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). These problems occur when the airway is blocked while you are sleeping. The solution can be as simple as a custom made oral appliance similar to a sports mouthguard. The two most common appliances used by Dr. Schlesinger are the Myerson EMA appliance and the Thorton Adjustable Positioner (TAP). Both of these appliances work by preventing the tongue and soft tissue from collapsing into the throat. Most patients are comfortable with the appliance within one week. The appliance is small and comfortable and therefore is ideal for people who travel.

THE PROCESS

Once you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or severe snoring, the appliance can be fabricated. At your first visit, impressions of the top and bottom teeth are taken along with a registration of your bite. This information is sent to a laboratory where the appliance is custom made. Approximately three weeks later you will have a second appointment to fit the appliance. You will also practice inserting the appliance and learn what to expect when using it. The only appointments necessary after that will be to adjust the appliance.

HOW THE APPLIANCE WORKS

The appliance attaches to the top and bottom teeth and gently holds the mandible (lower jaw) forward. Holding the jaw forward moves the tongue forward as well and opens the airway. With an open airway, there is no vibrating of the soft palate (snoring) and breathing is unimpaired.