Issue 15.14
Did you know that a lack of sleep could result in irreversible physical damage, including the loss of brain cells? That’s the conclusion of a recent Penn Medicine study published in the Journal of Neuroscience.
Simply stated, the findings of this study go against the commonly held notion that missed sleep can be made up just by sleeping more at other times. In fact, the study suggests that extended periods of time without proper sleep could result in loss of neurons that are essential for alertness and optimal cognition.
“The findings of this study remind us that individuals with any type of sleep issue shouldn’t ignore the problem. A lack of sleep could be causing permanent harm to the brain,” said Dr. Shad Morris, DMD, a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and CEO of Premier Sleep Solutions LLC. (Morris was not involved in the Penn Medicine study.)
Morris said his company, Premier Sleep Solutions, specializes in treating individuals with sleep apnea who have had problems with their continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines. Premier Sleep Solutions offers oral appliance therapy as an alternative to CPAP.
“Oral appliance therapy involves the selection, fitting and use of a specially designed oral appliance. This appliance maintains an open, unobstructed airway in the throat when worn during sleep. Oral appliances are similar in appearance to bleach trays or mouth pieces, and unlike CPAP devices, are not connected to any type of external apparatus, nor do they require masks that touch the face. For many patients, oral appliances can be as effective as CPAP, yet much more comfortable,” Morris added.
Dentists like Morris who have experience in oral appliance therapy can help determine which oral appliance is best suited for the patient’s specific needs. A board-certified sleep medicine physician must first provide a diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment approach. A dentist with experience in treating sleep apnea may then provide treatment and follow-up..
Most insurance companies now cover oral appliance therapy and the oral appliances. Morris noted that Medicare is leading the way relative to standard of care within the industry.
Premier Sleep Solutions is now offering free sleep consultations. To make an appointment, call Premier Sleep Solutions at (435)319-0478 or visit www.premiersleepsolutions.com. Premier Sleep Solutions is located at 75 S. 100 E. Suite 1 E in St. George. The company also has an office in Salt Lake City.