A Gentle, Minimally Invasive Sleep Apnea Treatment
Do you suffer from sleep apnea or chronic snoring that disrupts your sleep and affects your daily life? At TMJ Sleep Colorado, Dr. Jim Beck, a dentist with a special focus on sleep disorders, offers innovative treatment options to help you breathe easier and sleep better. We’re committed to providing personalized care and helping you achieve optimal sleep health.
Call our top sleep dentist in Pueblo, CO, at (719) 544-0901 to schedule a consultation and discuss your sleep apnea or snoring concerns.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last from a few seconds to several minutes and occur multiple times per night.
When you stop breathing, your brain briefly wakes you to start breathing again. This disrupts your sleep cycle, preventing you from reaching the deep, restorative stages of sleep essential for overall health and well-being.
What is NightLase?
NightLase® is a minimally invasive laser procedure designed to improve sleep quality by reducing snoring and mild to moderate snoring. It uses gentle laser energy to target and tighten tissues in the upper airway, specifically the soft palate and uvula. This tightening effect helps to:
- Increase the size of your airway
- Reduce vibrations in the airway tissues that cause snoring
- Improve airflow during sleep
NightLase® is performed by a qualified healthcare professional in an outpatient setting. The procedure is relatively quick and comfortable, typically requiring no anesthesia.
Benefits of NightLase for Sleep Apnea Treatment
NightLase® offers several advantages over traditional sleep apnea treatments like CPAP therapy:
- Minimally Invasive: NightLase® is a non-surgical procedure with minimal discomfort.
- Safe and Effective: NightLase® has a high success rate in reducing snoring.
- Little to No Downtime: Most patients can resume normal activities immediately following treatment.
- Comfortable Alternative to CPAP: NightLase® eliminates the need for bulky masks and tubes associated with CPAP therapy.
- Long-lasting Results: Studies show that NightLase® results can be long-lasting, providing relief for several years.
How Does NightLase Work?
NightLase® works by utilizing a specific type of laser called an Er: YAG laser to gently heat the tissues in your upper airway. This controlled heating triggers collagen remodeling within the targeted tissues, primarily the soft palate and uvula. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and support to your tissues. As the laser stimulates collagen remodeling, these tissues contract and tighten.
This tightening has a two-fold effect on sleep apnea and snoring:
- Increased Airway Size: By tightening the soft palate and uvula, NightLase® helps to increase the size of your airway. This allows for improved airflow during sleep.
- Reduced Vibrations: The tightened tissues are less prone to vibrations, which are the main culprit behind snoring. As the tissues vibrate less, snoring is significantly reduced or eliminated.
How Do I Know if NightLase is Right for Me?
NightLase® may be a suitable option for you if you experience:
- Chronic Snoring: NightLase® can significantly reduce or eliminate chronic snoring, improving your sleep quality and that of your partner.
- Discomfort with CPAP Therapy: If you find CPAP therapy uncomfortable or disruptive to your sleep, NightLase® offers a non-surgical and maskless alternative to lessen the effects of sleep apnea.
Here are some factors to consider when deciding if NightLase® is right for you:
- The Severity of Snoring: NightLase® is most effective for mild to moderate cases.
- Your Overall health: Certain medical conditions may make you a less suitable candidate for NightLase®.
- Your Preferences: NightLase® offers a non-surgical and comfortable alternative to CPAP therapy.
The best way to determine if NightLase® is a good fit for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jim Beck at TMJ Sleep Colorado in Pueblo, CO. During your consultation, Dr. Beck will assess your sleep apnea or snoring severity, discuss your medical history, and answer any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many NightLase treatments will I need?
The exact number of NightLase® treatments you’ll need depends on your situation. In most cases, three to five sessions spaced out over a period are recommended. Your provider will assess the severity of your sleep apnea or snoring during your consultation. This, along with your desired outcome, will determine the optimal treatment plan for you.
Does NightLase hurt?
NightLase® is designed to be a minimally invasive and comfortable procedure. The laser used delivers gentle energy, and anesthetic is typically not required. Some patients may experience a slight tickle or warmth in the throat during treatment. However, most people tolerate the procedure well with minimal discomfort.
Are there any side effects with NightLase?
NightLase® is a safe procedure with minimal side effects. However, some patients may experience:
- Mild throat soreness: This is the most common side effect and usually resolves within a day or two after treatment.
- Temporary discomfort: You might feel a slight tickle or irritation in your throat following the procedure. This is usually temporary and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or throat lozenges.
If you experience any side effects following your NightLase® treatment that are concerning or don’t improve within a few days, be sure to contact your provider’s office.
Is NightLase covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage for NightLase® varies depending on your plan. As it’s a relatively new procedure, coverage may differ among providers. We recommend contacting your insurance company directly to get the most accurate coverage information. They can provide details on whether NightLase® is covered under your plan and what your out-of-pocket costs might be.
Discover a Painless CPAP Alternative with NightLase Laser Treatments
If you’re tired of sleep disruptions caused by chronic snoring, TMJ Sleep Colorado in Pueblo, CO, can help. Dr. Beck, a dentist with experience in sleep disorders, offers innovative treatments like NightLase® to promote better sleep and improved health.
Don’t hesitate to take control of your sleep! Contact TMJ Sleep Colorado today at (719) 544-0901 to schedule a consultation and discuss how NightLase® or other treatment options can help you achieve a good night’s rest. We welcome patients from Blende, Bessemer, and Baxter, CO.