Sleep Apnea Treatment
What exactly is sleep apnea, and how does it occur?
Sleep apnea occurs when the airway collapses, often due to the tongue blocking the airway, while you’re asleep. Your brain then briefly wakes you, your jaw closes to reopen the airway, and sleep resumes, but this cycle may repeat 50 or more times each hour.
Why is sleep apnea a concern for my health?
When your airway is blocked, your brain doesn’t get enough oxygen. Oxygen deprivation can harm your cardiovascular system and often leads to chronic fatigue.
How can your practice help treat my sleep apnea?
We can fabricate a simple oral appliance that holds your jaw in a position that keeps your airway open during sleep. This helps reduce snoring and improve breathing.
Do I have to use a CPAP device to treat sleep apnea?
While CPAP devices are commonly used, they can be cumbersome, bothersome, and expensive. For many people, the oral appliance we offer could be a better alternative.
What should I do if I think I or a family member might have sleep apnea?
Please call our office to see how we can help you find a solution. If you currently use a CPAP device, we encourage you to discuss with us whether an alternative appliance could be a better fit.
How could treating sleep apnea improve my well-being?
By addressing sleep apnea, Dr. Firlik can help you avoid serious health issues and get a good night’s sleep.
TMD (Jaw) Pain Relief
What might be causing my jaw pain or grinding?
Several symptoms—including jaw pain, teeth grinding (bruxism), or difficulty with your bite can be linked to TMD. Only a dental professional can determine if TMD truly causes your discomfort.
How can teeth grinding at night affect my teeth?
Grinding can wear away the enamel and expose softer dentin, making your teeth more prone to decay and sensitivity.
What temporary relief options do you offer for jaw pain?
We may recommend a temporary splint, pain relievers and hot or cold compresses for short-term relief of painful symptoms.
What long-term treatment do you provide for nighttime teeth grinding?
We can create a night guard that helps reduce or prevent the effects of teeth grinding during sleep, often offering lasting relief for many patients.
Is surgery ever necessary to treat TMD?
Surgery is sometimes needed. Most patients find sufficient relief through treatments that help them change how they use their jaw muscles instead.
What should I do if I think I might have TMD?
Call our office to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Firlik, who can assess your symptoms and help ease your jaw pain.
Orthotropics & ALF
What is orthotropics, and how does it differ from traditional orthodontics?
Orthotropics is an alternative to traditional braces that guides the natural horizontal growth of the upper and lower dental arches to enhance the shape and contours of the face.
What benefits can I expect from properly developed jaws through orthotropics?
You can gain a better bite, a healthier jaw joint, and face a reduced risk of developing sleep apnea later in life.
Who created orthotropics and why?
Orthotropics was developed in the 1950s by Dr. John Mew, a British orthodontist who believed traditional orthodontics often limited proper facial development and focused only on straightening teeth.
How does Dr. Firlik incorporate orthotropics into her practice?
Dr. Firlik offers orthotropics to younger patients and would be happy to consult with you if you have a child who might benefit from this treatment approach.
What is the ALF appliance and how does it work?
The ALF (Advanced Light Force) appliance is a lightweight, comfortable appliance that Dr. Firlik offers. In children it supports natural growth of the upper and lower dental arches and creates spaces for the teeth to erupt properly. In adults it provides arch expansion.
Clear Aligners
What are clear aligners, and how do they work?
Clear aligners are custom-made, transparent trays that gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment. They are a comfortable and virtually invisible alternative to traditional metal braces.
Why should I choose clear aligners instead of braces?
Clear aligners offer improved appearance, comfort, convenience, and flexibility. They allow you to straighten your teeth discreetly while fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle.
What are the benefits of clear aligner treatment at Firlik Family Dentistry and Airway Health Care?
Our clear aligners are nearly invisible, custom-made for comfort, easy to remove for eating and cleaning, and designed to support an active, flexible lifestyle.
What is the process for getting clear aligners at your Belmont office?
Your treatment begins with a consultation and advanced 3D imaging. We create a detailed, personalized treatment plan, provide your custom aligners, and schedule regular check-ups to monitor your progress.
What orthodontic issues can clear aligners fix?
Clear aligners can effectively treat crowded teeth, gaps, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and minor to moderate misalignment.
Who is a good candidate for clear aligners?
Clear aligners are ideal for busy professionals, active teenagers, and anyone seeking a discreet, comfortable solution for straightening their smile.
How do clear aligners fit into daily life?
They can be removed for meals, sports, and special occasions, then placed back in to continue treatment without disrupting your routine.