Relief for Sleep Apnea and TMJ Pain

White Cosmetic & Family Dentistry offers effective solutions for people suffering from these major health concerns.

The staff of White Cosmetic & Family Dentistry (L to R): Jessica Shaw, Tara Coble, Lonna White, Dr. Steven White, Tracey Mulkey and Jessica Klassen.

Dr. Steven White has offered dental services to Tulsa and the surrounding communities for over 35 years. He provides a wide range of services in a friendly, comforting environment using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques. “We want to alert everyone to two conditions that are major health concerns,” says Dr. White. “One is TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders; the other is sleep apnea. Both disorders can be treated in our office.”
If you can’t open your mouth wide without pain, if you hear clicking or popping, or if your jaw ever locks up, it’s a good bet you’ve got an issue with the jaw joint. One of the most common symptoms of TMJ disorder is frequent, debilitating headaches. We don’t often associate headaches with a dental origin that may be treated successfully by a knowledgeable dentist. Recommended treatment is often bite guard (orthotic splint) therapy. However, simply putting a piece of plastic between the teeth does not ensure permanent results. Bite guards are customized to each patient and must be periodically adjusted as the joint heals. Although adjustments are generally completed in two to three months, you must continue wearing the appliance in order to remain symptom-free and safe from relapse. Most cases resolve easily and result in far fewer headaches and earaches and less jaw popping and joint pain. “Results are usually life changing,” says Dr. White.
Dr. White treats sleep apnea with fitted appliances. The public has become more aware of the disorder because research has disclosed its devastating consequences. It has been implicated in hypertension and cardiovascular disease, leading to strokes and heart attacks. These in turn lead to increased susceptibility to diseases that include compromised immune systems, learning and memory loss, irritability, sexual dysfunction, and mental and emotional health issues. Apnea occurs because the body is unable to obtain sufficient amounts of oxygen during sleep. The patient is essentially startled awake gasping for air.
Dr. White fits patients with appliances that open the airway and allow for a healthy night’s sleep. “Snoring, choking or gasping for air throughout the night will be eliminated,” said Dr. White. He recommends sleep studies administered by a physician to determine the severity of the problem, with a diagnosis and recommended treatment. In severe cases, CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines are recommended. “Because some patients cannot tolerate sleeping with a mask, the appliance is an option. These devices are also fitted to help eliminate snoring. Medical insurance benefits are usually available when sleep studies have been conducted.”
Dr. White and the White Cosmetic & Family Dentistry team report that they have had a tremendous response to their QDP (Quality Dental Plan) program, which is a low-cost alternative to expensive dental insurance. “Our QDP offers a way for patients to receive full routine exams and cleanings, plus reduced fees for all services, with none of the common hassles encountered with dental insurance,” said Dr. White. “Because insurance companies aren’t making profits by limiting or denying services, the dentist and consumer save time and money. No third party.” Dr. White adds that the plan could save you thousands on dental treatment and eliminate costly insurance premiums, which puts money back in your pocket.

For more information, contact

White Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

www.whitesmilesfortulsa.com
 

About Author Duane Blankenship

Blankenship graduated from the University of Oklahoma and has enjoyed a lifetime career in advertising. He started his own advertising business in 1993 and enjoys creating graphic art and writing. Hobbies include hunting, fishing and pencil drawings. Duane and his wife, Janice, have been married over 50 years and are active in their church and community. He has been a contributing writer for Value News/Values Magazine since 2005.