An Alternative Solution for Snoring
Snoring. It’s a nightly symphony that disrupts not just your own sleep, but also the sleep of your partner. While it might seem like a funny anecdote at best, chronic snoring can have serious health consequences, including increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure according to a study published in the National Institutes of Health’s Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
At the Mugford Center for Periodontics and Dental Implants in Crofton, Maryland, Drs. David Mugford and John Bruce offer a revolutionary solution for snoring relief: NightLase® laser treatment.
What is NightLase?
“NightLase is a really interesting procedure that we do which is intended to help people with snoring and potentially even help you with sleep apnea,” explains Dr. Bruce.
This minimally invasive, laser-based treatment targets the tissues in the back of your throat that contribute to snoring. By gently stimulating these tissues, NightLase promotes tightening and reduces vibration, leading to significant snoring reduction.
“NightLase uses two different lasers,” says Dr. Bruce. “One which stimulates collagen and the other which helps tense up different parts of your mouth that would traditionally cause snoring which is the back of your mouth or your soft palate, your tongue, and the floor of your mouth.”
Here’s a breakdown of the science behind NightLase:
- Collagen Stimulation: The laser’s heat energy triggers the production of collagen, a protein that provides structure and support to tissues. Increased collagen production in the soft palate and surrounding areas leads to firmer, less-vibratory tissues, reducing snoring https://www.fotona.com/en/treatments/2039/nightlase-r/.
- Tissue Tightening: The laser also delivers targeted pulses that cause a slight tightening effect in the soft palate, uvula, and tongue base. This tightening reduces the amount of tissue vibration during sleep, further minimizing snoring sounds https://progressivedentist.com/service/nithtlase.
Benefits of NightLase for Snoring Reduction
NightLase offers several advantages over traditional snoring treatments:
- Minimally Invasive: Unlike surgical procedures for snoring, NightLase is a comfortable, in-office procedure with no scalpels or stitches.
- Quick and Easy: The treatment itself takes only about 20 minutes per session, with most patients requiring a series of three sessions spaced a few weeks apart.
- Little to No Discomfort: NightLase uses minimal laser energy, resulting in minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Topical anesthetic can be applied for added comfort.
- Long-lasting Results: While individual results may vary, NightLase offers significant snoring reduction that can last up to a year. https://www.facebook.com/FotonaLasersUS/photos/this-is-a-before-and-after-after-only-one-nightlase-treatment-if-you-havent-hear/3316652145045870/.
- Non-Disruptive Sleep: Unlike CPAP machines or oral appliances, NightLase requires no special equipment to wear while you sleep.
NightLase vs. Other Snoring Treatments
There are several options available for snoring relief, each with its own pros and cons. Here’s how NightLase compares:
- CPAP Machines: While effective for sleep apnea, CPAP machines can be bulky, noisy, and uncomfortable to wear https://www.sleepapnea.org/cpap/.
- Oral Appliances: These devices can be bulky and disrupt sleep, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the type and severity of snoring https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/pulmonary-medicine/news/the-gaining-popularity-of-oral-appliances/mac-20431248.
- Surgery: Surgical procedures for snoring can be invasive and carry potential risks https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/sleep-surgery-clinic/overview/ovc-20469499.
- Lifestyle Changes: While weight loss and avoiding alcohol before bed can help, they may not fully address the underlying cause of snoring for everyone https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/snoring/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20377701.
NightLase May Also Benefit Sleep Apnea Sufferers
Dr. Bruce highlights that NightLase “can potentially even help you with sleep apnea.” Sleep apnea is a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. While NightLase is not a primary treatment for sleep apnea, it can sometimes help in mild to moderate cases by improving airway patency. If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, a consultation with Dr. Bruce is crucial for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. A study published in the journal Sleep and Breathing suggests NightLase may be effective in mild sleep apnea cases
Is NightLase Right for You?
The best way to determine if NightLase is a suitable snoring treatment for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bruce at the Mugford Center for Periodontics and Dental Implants in Crofton. During your consultation, Dr. Bruce will:
- Discuss your snoring history and severity.
- Conduct a physical examination of your mouth and throat.
- Review your medical history.
- Discuss your expectations and answer any questions you may have.
Don’t let snoring disrupt your sleep and your relationship. Dr. John Bruce and team offer NightLase and other solutions to help you achieve a peaceful night’s rest. Call us today at (410) 260-0790 or complete the “schedule an appointment” form on our website, to schedule a consultation and learn more about NightLase.
We hope this information empowers you to take control of your sleep and silence the nightly symphony. Remember, a good night’s rest is essential for your overall health and well-being.