Snoring Solutions
Snoring occurs when the tissues surrounding your throat are relaxed, which narrows your airway and causes the tissues to vibrate as you breathe. Noisy nights can cause couples to lose sleep and feel less energized to be intimate with each other. As a result, this can ultimately impact your overall marital satisfaction.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Whether you snore, have sleep apnea, or are looking for an alternative to the CPAP machine, Dr. Winkelmann offers effective treatment options including a custom-fitted oral appliance. An oral appliance is convenient, noiseless, and can fit in the palm of your hand. Say hello to your new quiet and comfortable companion.
Symptoms & Causes
Sleep apnea occurs when the tissues surrounding your throat collapse while you sleep and obstruct your airway. This causes a pause in your breathing and can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Symptoms include difficulty concentrating, irritability, and observed moments of breathlessness during sleep.
Our Snoring & Sleep Apnea Solutions
When you’re not getting the quality sleep you need, everyone suffers. Untreated sleep apnea and snoring can have devastating effects on your health and relationships. They can negatively impact nearly every aspect of your life, and leave you feeling exhausted.
At The CPAP Alternative, we believe that no two patients are the same. Over the years Dr. Winkelmann has selected the most effective oral appliances to treat each patient’s individual needs so you can feel rested, energized, and ready for the day ahead.
CPAP Alternatives
Oftentimes, patients who have tried the CPAP machine are disappointed by its restrictions and stop treatment altogether. Unfortunately, untreated sleep apnea can have serious health consequences. With advances in technology, you no longer have to deal with the inconveniences of the CPAP machine and you can enjoy the benefits of quality sleep.
Dr. Craig Winkelmann, DDS, FAGD
Dr. Craig Winkelmann is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. The Board is the certifying Board for dentists trained in the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea with oral appliances. He began treating patients with sleep breathing disorders in 2002. As part of his early training, he spent time with Sleep Technicians in a sleep lab to gain first-hand insight into the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea and primary snoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is obstructive sleep apnea?
Patients whose sleep is constantly interrupted throughout the night may be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. This sleep disorder wakes you up while trying to rest, preventing you from getting the quality sleep your body needs to function. If left unchecked, sleep apnea can lead to a wide range of serious health consequences.
How is obstructive sleep apnea diagnosed?
You’ll need to undergo a sleep study to get a proper sleep apnea diagnosis. This is typically done at a lab under the supervision of a physician, but some sleep specialists offer an at-home option for your convenience. A sleep study will monitor your heart rate, breathing, and the amount of oxygen in your blood. Once you’re diagnosed with sleep apnea, your sleep specialist will help you find a treatment option that best works for you.
What happens if sleep apnea is left untreated?
If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health consequences like heart disease, strokes, high blood pressure, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. That’s why it’s crucial to seek treatment immediately after getting diagnosed with sleep apnea from a sleep dentist or specialist. They’ll be able to determine the best solution for your unique sleep condition.
How do I schedule a visit to a sleep lab?
Reach out to your primary care doctor and schedule an appointment with them to talk about your sleep problems. Be sure to specify that you would like to undergo a sleep test. They’ll refer you to a local sleep clinic where you can undergo a study. Afterward, you can get in touch with a sleep dentist like Dr. Winkelmann so that they can go over your results and provide treatment.
Treat Your Sleep Apnea With Dr. Craig Winkelmann
Achieve a peaceful night’s sleep by treating your sleep apnea. At The CPAP Alternative, Dr. Craig Winkelmann has provided patients struggling with sleep problems with the solutions they need to tackle the coming day. Call our Wake Forest, NC office at (984) 237-1013 or by filling out our online contact form. We also welcome patients who reside in Riverstone, Staffordshire, and Brooke Hollow, NC.