We Offer Treatment for Snoring!

Visiting with Chevy Chase dentist Dr. Banks can help to solve your sleep problems…

Snoring is often not just the result of a stuffy nose or bad sleeping position, it can also be the sign of a health concern called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which has been linked to a greater risk of stroke, heart disease and other physical health issues. Patients who suffer from OSA actually stop breathing momentarily during sleep, depriving their organs of much needed oxygen, and then restart with a loud snore.

OSA is frequently the result of a blocked airway and is more common in patients who are overweight, have a large neck and/or have enlarged tonsils. OSA can sometimes be difficult to diagnose, but there are several key symptoms that many experience and that should be brought to the attention of your doctor or dentist:

  • Loud snoring- sometimes only noticed by family members
  • Morning headaches
  • Feeling groggy or unable to concentrate, even after a “good night’s sleep”
  • Sleepiness during the day or while driving
  • Insomnia or frequently waking up at night
  • A consistent sore or dry throat in the morning

Dr. Banks frequently recommends oral appliance therapy for patients who snore or have mild to moderate OSA. In some cases, patients may perform a test at home which can be analyzed by their physician and coordinated with Dr. Banks for treatment with an oral appliance, or snore guard.

While the CPAP machine is considered the “gold standard” for treatment of OSA, oral appliance therapy can also be very effective because of higher rates of compliance among patients. Most patients prefer oral appliance therapy, find it to be a more comfortable option and are therefore more likely to use it consistently.

If you are concerned about your sleep habits or snoring, discuss your concerns with Dr. Banks during a visit- and get a better night’s sleep!

Location

2 Wisconsin Circle
Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Request Appointment

new patients 301.654.5878

current patients 301.654.5878 or Text Us

Hours

Monday
By Appointment Only
9:00am-4:00pm
Tuesday
8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday
8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday
9:00am – 4:00pm
Friday
8:00am -4:00pm
Saturday
By Appointment Only