Sleep Apnea Treatment in Chicago, IL
Sleep apnea is more than just snoring—it’s a serious condition that can affect your health. At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we offer customized treatments to help you breathe easier and sleep better. Dr. Helen Chan, D.M.D., M.Sc., provides effective solutions to improve your quality of life.
Serving Chicago's Communities
Conveniently located in Chinatown, we proudly serve patients in The Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, West Loop, and Wicker Park/Bucktown.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which your airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing. These interruptions can occur dozens or even hundreds of times throughout the night. There are two main types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form, OSA occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much, leading to a blockage of the airway.
- Central Sleep Apnea: This less common form happens when the brain doesn’t send the right signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Both types of sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke, if left untreated.
How We Treat Sleep Apnea at Wentworth Dental Clinic PC
At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we offer oral appliance therapy as a comfortable and effective treatment option for sleep apnea. Unlike a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, an oral appliance is small, discreet, and easy to wear.
1. Oral Appliance Therapy
An oral appliance is a custom-made device that fits over your teeth like a sports mouthguard. It works by gently repositioning your jaw and tongue to keep your airway open during sleep. This non-invasive treatment is ideal for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and for those who cannot tolerate a CPAP machine.
Benefits of oral appliance therapy include:
- Comfort: The appliance is comfortable to wear and easy to adjust to.
- Convenience: Small and portable, it’s perfect for traveling.
- Quiet: Unlike CPAP machines, oral appliances are silent.
- Effectiveness: Oral appliances have been proven to reduce snoring and improve sleep quality for many patients.
2. Comprehensive Sleep Evaluation
Before starting treatment, Dr. Chan will conduct a thorough evaluation to assess your symptoms and determine the severity of your sleep apnea. If needed, we may recommend a sleep study or collaborate with a sleep specialist to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
The Benefits of Treating Sleep Apnea
Treating sleep apnea isn’t just about improving your sleep—it’s about protecting your long-term health. Some of the key benefits of sleep apnea treatment include:
- Improved sleep quality: Enjoy restful, uninterrupted sleep that leaves you feeling refreshed.
- Better overall health: Treatment can lower your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health issues.
- Increased energy: Say goodbye to daytime fatigue and stay alert throughout the day.
- Improved mood: Better sleep leads to improved emotional well-being, reducing irritability and stress.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
While snoring is the most well-known symptom of sleep apnea, there are several other signs to watch out for, including:
- Loud snoring that disrupts your sleep or your partner’s
- Gasping for air or choking during sleep
- Morning headaches or a dry mouth
- Daytime fatigue or difficulty staying awake
- Difficulty concentrating or forgetfulness
- Mood changes such as irritability or depression
If you or your partner notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional evaluation and treatment.
Who Can Benefit from Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Sleep apnea can affect people of all ages, but it’s especially common among adults who are overweight, have large tonsils, or have a family history of sleep apnea. You may benefit from sleep apnea treatment if:
- You snore loudly and regularly.
- You feel tired even after a full night’s sleep.
- Your partner notices you stop breathing during the night.
- You have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or heart disease.
If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, it’s essential to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
Why Choose Wentworth Dental Clinic PC for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
At Wentworth Dental Clinic PC, we take a personalized approach to sleep apnea treatment. Here’s why patients from Chinatown, The Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, West Loop, and Wicker Park/Bucktown trust us for their care:
- Customized Solutions: We create custom oral appliances tailored to your unique anatomy, ensuring comfort and effectiveness.
- Holistic Care: Dr. Helen Chan is experienced in providing non-invasive sleep apnea treatments that prioritize both comfort and results.
- Advanced Technology: Our clinic uses the latest digital imaging tools to ensure a precise fit for your oral appliance and accurate diagnosis.
- Patient-Centered Approach: We understand the impact that sleep apnea can have on your quality of life, and we’re committed to helping you achieve better sleep and better health.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re struggling with sleep apnea or chronic snoring, Wentworth Dental Clinic PC is here to help. Call us at (312) 225-5500 or visit our Contact Page to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you achieve better sleep and overall health.