Symptoms and Solutions
An Epigenetic Approach to Sleep Apnea
SLEEP APNEA
It is estimated that more than 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea. The health ramifications of sleep apnea range in severity, but include: cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart attack, hypertension, daytime sleepiness, depression and impotance. The most common treatment options (CPAP-Continuous Positive Airway Pressure and traditional dental appliances) do not cure sleep apnea; they simply control the symptoms by keeping the airway open. The implication for the patient is a lifetime of having to “gear up” for bed.
THE DNA APPLIANCE
The Daytime-Nighttime Appliance (DNA) is ideal for both adults and children. It is comfortable, painless and is only worn in the evenings and as you sleep. It involves no surgery, no drugs, and no injections. The appliance harnesses natural developmental mechanisms to correct tooth alignment, improve facial development and open the upper airway. Most importantly, this approach addresses the root causes of sleep apnea and is proven to reduce snoring and sleep apnea.
Unlike other dental appliances that simply move the jaw forward to force the airway open, the DNA appliance works to permanently optimize the underlying structure of the airway.
The mouth is one of the most dynamic aspects of the face. Research has shown that its form impacts a person’s ability to breathe. As we grow, the genes that control the formation of the mouth are programmed to create an arch that is 38-42mm wide between the right and left molars.
Inheritance and environmental factors impact the expression of these genes and can result in an arch that is too narrow. This results in diminished airflow and increased susceptibility to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
The misconception that corrections to the arch or skill can only be made in children has been proven false. Not only is the airway enhanced by bringing the mouth closer to its ideal form, but improvements in general facial structures are also possible.
