Better sleep can change your life. But if you have problems with snoring, you may wake up feeling less than restored after a night of sleep. Snoring not only disturbs your sleep but can be a sign of sleep apnea, a potentially serious sleep disorder. That’s why at Flax Dental, our leading Atlanta cosmetic dentist, Dr. Hugh Flax, offers NightLase laser treatment to help you stop snoring.
This innovative snoring and sleep apnea solution helps patients get restful sleep. Call (404) 255-9080 to explore our state-of-the-art dental lasers and receive the restorative rest you deserve! We also offer cosmetic dental care to new and existing patients in Sandy Springs, Atlanta, GA.
What Is NightLase?
NightLase is a non-surgical, laser-based procedure that treats snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea. This breakthrough technology targets the soft tissue in the mouth and throat that contributes to snoring and obstructed breathing.
The gentle laser light shrinks and stiffens the soft palate and uvula to prevent vibration and collapse. Unlike other snoring treatments, NightLase is non-invasive, with virtually no pain or recovery time.
Meet Dr. Flax
Dr. Flax has decades of experience helping people improve their lives through better oral health and better sleep. As an internationally recognized dentist, his reputation for providing the most cutting-edge, high-quality treatments available attracts patients from all over. But it’s his gentle, caring demeanor that keeps them returning time and time again.
Better sleep is within reach!
How Does NightLase Work?
NightLase utilizes state-of-the-art laser technology called photo-thermal irradiation. The device delivers short pulses of laser light into the soft tissues of the mouth and throat. The light energy generates heat that causes collagen contraction and tissue stiffening. This tightens and stabilizes the soft palate to reduce the vibrations that cause snoring.
The NightLase procedure takes less than 30 minutes and requires no anesthesia. Most patients report little to no discomfort during or after treatment. Improvements in snoring and breathing are noticeable immediately. Additional sessions will provide optimal results, and maintenance sessions can help annually or when symptoms recur.
The NightLase Procedure at Flax Dental
Initial Consultation
The first step is to schedule a consultation at our Atlanta cosmetic dental office. During this visit, Dr. Flax will review your health history, examine your mouth and throat, and discuss your snoring and sleep issues. He’ll determine if you are a good candidate for NightLase based on the severity of your symptoms. We will need a copy of a recent sleep study prior to your initial consultation.
Pre-Treatment Prep
No special preparation is required before your NightLase appointment. You should arrive with a clean mouth and avoid wearing heavy makeup. Consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever beforehand to minimize any discomfort. Be sure to inform Dr. Flax of any changes to your health or medications since your consultation.
In-Office NightLase Treatment
The NightLase procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes and is performed right in the dental chair. You’ll wear eye protection while the handheld laser wand delivers pulses to the soft tissues of your mouth and throat. You may feel some mild tingling or warming sensations. Most patients report little to no pain.
Post-Procedure Recovery
There is no recovery or downtime after your NightLase treatment. You can drive yourself home and resume normal activities right away. Some temporary minor soreness or swelling may occur but typically resolves within 48 hours. Use over-the-counter pain medication as needed for relief.
Follow-Up Appointments
Based on your initial snoring/apnea severity, Dr. Flax will schedule additional NightLase sessions for optimal improvement. Follow-ups are usually spaced two to four weeks apart. Annual maintenance visits can also sustain the effects long-term.
Candidates for NightLase
NightLase is intended for patients who suffer from chronic, disruptive snoring. This treatment is also effective for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Ideal candidates for NightLase include those who:
- Snore loudly regularly
- Have been diagnosed with mild or moderate sleep apnea
- Are unable to use CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) devices
- Want to avoid surgery or implants
- Have mild anatomic obstruction in the nose, throat, or palate
- Are in overall good health
Patients with significant nasal obstruction or severe sleep apnea are not candidates for NightLase. Our Sandy Springs dentist will determine if you’re suitable for this therapy.
Post-NightLase Treatment Care
There are no special preparations or recovery needed after NightLase treatment. You can drive home and return to work or other activities right away.
Potential side effects are mild and temporary. These may include:
- Mild throat or mouth soreness for one to two days
- Light swelling around the uvula or soft palate
- The sensation of a tickle or dry throat for a few days
Over-the-counter oral pain relievers are usually sufficient to alleviate any discomfort. Be sure to keep follow-up appointments with our Sandy Springs dentist to monitor your symptoms and sleep improvements. Let Dr. Flax know if snoring or apnea persists so he can adjust your treatment plan.
FAQs
What kind of laser is used in NightLase?
NightLase utilizes a gentle, low-level Er: YAG laser that delivers highly targeted light energy to tissues. This stimulates tightening and reduces vibration and looseness in the soft palate, uvula, and throat.
What causes snoring?
Snoring stems from an airway obstruction. It might result from:
- Sleep apnea
- Your mouth anatomy
- Genetic factors
- A deviated septum
- Poor sleeping positions
- Sleep deprivation
- Alcohol consumption
Additionally, some people are at higher risk of snoring than others. Those risk factors include obesity, being male, older age, having a wide neck or narrow airways, and sinus problems
How long do NightLase results last?
Improvements in snoring and breathing from NightLase can last one year or longer. Maintenance sessions are recommended annually or sooner if loud snoring returns. The treatment aims to provide long-term tightening of the throat tissues.
Can NightLase cure sleep apnea?
For mild sleep apnea, NightLase can effectively open airways and reduce apneic events. For moderate to severe apnea, this treatment can be used along with CPAP or other therapies. NightLase may allow lower CPAP pressure settings for greater comfort.