Snoring is often a sign of sleep apnea that is a severe life threatening disorder. Untreated sleep apnea is a greater health risk to public health and safety than cigarette smoking.
Dr. Hand is a trained provider of what is considered to be the gold standard of treatment of sleep apnea with the use of a Thornton Adjustable Appliance (TAP®).
The Thornton Adjustable Positioner® (TAP®) is a custom adjustable oral appliance that is worn while sleeping. The appliance holds the lower jaw forward, preventing the tongue and the soft tissue of the throat from collapsing into the airway.
The purpose of the TAP® is to prevent snoring and sleep apnea, and thereby improving the health and quality of life for people who suffer from sleep-disordered breathing. The America Academy of Sleep Medicine in 2006 declared that oral appliances were a first line treatment for mild to moderate sleep apnea equal to CPAP, an alternative treatment for severe sleep apnea. when patients do not tolerate CPAP.
Dr. Hand, in coordination with your physician, neurologist or pulmonary specialist, can evaluate and provide for, what is often, a problem that goes untreated.
Note; Only a dentist is trained to fabricate and deliver an oral appliance and they must have special knowledge of Temporomandibular Joint Treatment (TMJ).