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Sleep apnea disrupts millions of lives nightly, leaving sufferers gasping for breath and partners losing precious rest. This serious condition occurs when soft tissues in the throat collapse during sleep, blocking airflow and causing repeated breathing interruptions throughout the night. Many people struggle for years with CPAP machines, oral appliances, or other temporary solutions without addressing the root cause of their airway obstruction.
At Floss & Co., we offer a different approach to sleep apnea treatment through airway expansion therapy. Our dentists in Garfield Ridge, Chicago focus on creating more space in your airway by expanding the upper jaw, allowing for improved breathing during both day and night hours. This innovative treatment may help reduce or eliminate your de
How Does Airway Expansion Help Sleep Apnea?
Airway expansion works by increasing the size of your nasal passages and upper airway. When the upper jaw is too narrow, it can restrict airflow and contribute to sleep-disordered breathing. By gently widening the palate, we create additional room for your tongue and soft tissues, reducing the likelihood of airway collapse during sleep.
The process involves using specialized orthodontic airway appliances that gradually expand the upper jaw over several months. As the palate widens, the nasal passages also increase in size, improving nasal breathing. Better nasal breathing often leads to improved sleep quality and a reduction in snoring. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, about 50 to 70 million Americans have a sleep disorder.
Who Can Benefit From This Treatment?
Both children and adults may benefit from airway expansion therapy. In children, early intervention can prevent the development of severe sleep apnea later in life. Adult patients often find expanding their airway reduces their reliance on CPAP machines or eliminates the need for them.
The Treatment Process
Our approach begins with a comprehensive airway assessment to determine if you are a good candidate for expansion therapy. We utilize advanced imaging to assess your current airway dimensions and pinpoint areas where improvement is possible. The actual expansion process is gradual and comfortable, allowing your body to adapt naturally to the changes that occur.
What Sleep Apnea Symptoms Might Improve?
Sleep apnea creates a cascade of symptoms that extend far beyond nighttime breathing issues. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications. Patients often experience chronic fatigue, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes. Many people don’t realize their daytime struggles stem from poor nighttime breathing.
Airway expansion may address several key symptoms associated with sleep apnea. Our patients commonly report the following improvements after treatment:
- Reduced snoring and sleep disturbances
- Improved energy levels throughout the day
- Better concentration and mental clarity
- Decreased morning headaches
- Enhanced mood and emotional stability
These improvements occur because expanded airways allow for more consistent oxygen flow during sleep, leading to deeper, more restorative rest periods.
Why Choose Airway Expansion Over Other Treatments?
Traditional sleep apnea treatments often manage symptoms rather than addressing underlying structural issues. CPAP machines, while effective, can be cumbersome and uncomfortable for long-term use. Oral appliances may provide some relief, but don’t create permanent changes to your airway structure.
Long-Term Benefits
Airway expansion offers the potential for lasting improvements to your breathing and sleep quality. Once your airway has been expanded, the structural changes remain permanent. This means you may experience continued benefits without the need for nightly devices or ongoing maintenance treatments.
Comfort and Convenience
Our patients appreciate the gradual, comfortable nature of airway expansion treatment. The process doesn’t require surgery or lengthy recovery periods. Most people can continue their normal daily activities throughout the treatment period while experiencing progressive improvements in their breathing.
When Should You Consider Airway Expansion?
Many adults assume sleep apnea treatment options are limited to CPAP machines or surgery. However, airway expansion may be suitable for patients who have mild to moderate sleep apnea caused by structural airway restrictions. If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea but struggle with traditional treatment methods, expansion therapy might offer an alternative solution.
Children with sleep-disordered breathing, chronic mouth breathing, or narrow palates may also benefit significantly from early airway expansion. Addressing these issues during childhood can prevent more serious problems from developing as they grow.
The best candidates for airway expansion are those whose sleep apnea is caused by upper jaw narrowness or restricted nasal passages. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your specific situation and discuss whether this treatment approach aligns with your needs and goals.
Experience Better Sleep From Airway Expansion at Floss & Co.
Airway expansion for sleep apnea represents a proactive approach to addressing the structural causes of breathing difficulties during sleep. By creating more space in your airway, this treatment may help reduce your dependence on traditional sleep apnea devices while providing lasting improvements to your breathing and overall health. The comprehensive approach we take ensures each patient receives personalized care based on their unique airway anatomy and treatment goals.
Our team at Floss & Co. combines advanced technology with a patient-centered approach to help you achieve better breathing and improved sleep quality. We welcome patients of all ages and backgrounds, creating a comfortable environment where you can explore your treatment options without pressure. Call our office at (773) 586-5522 or complete a contact form to schedule a consultation and discover how airway expansion might transform your sleep and daily life.
