Can Lasers Eliminate Snoring?

Dr. Linda Kronick

Laser Dentistry Pioneer to Discuss on CPAP Chat November 4 at 7PM

Now loud snorers – and their significant others – have a new option in the search for a peaceful night’s sleep: NightLase.

Connecticut’s Dr. Linda Kronick, one of the first dentists in New England to use the NightLase system to reduce snoring, will be the featured guest on the November 4th edition of ‘CPAP Chat.’ The hour-long session is free and anonymous.

Now in its second year, CPAP Chat (www.cpapchat.org) is the world’s only virtual support group for people with sleep apnea. On the first Wednesday of each month, the session attracts sleep apnea sufferers and health care professionals from about 10 states for the town hall forum style conference call. Participants share their stories while expert guests offer tips, discuss new products, and answer questions about sleep apnea. The host is Eric Cohen, president of National Sleep Therapy, CPAP Chat sponsor. (www.nstherapy.com)

While his company’s focus is on providing CPAP devices, respiratory therapy, and patient education and compliance tips, Cohen says the role of CPAP Chat is 100% education and information. “Our mission for CPAP Chat is to provide a forum for people to learn about their healthcare options and have the chance to discuss them with their peers and experts whenever possible,” he says. “NightLase is just such an example and suggests a possible option to treat snoring and sleep apnea that people may want to investigate further and discuss with their treating physician.”

Dr. Kronick of Laser Dentistry, LLC, in Bozrah, CT, says the NighLase treatment provides a gentle, laser-induced tightening effect caused by the contraction of collagen in the oral mucosa tissue. “It’s painless but isn’t for everyone. A patient with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea needs three treatments every two weeks, and the cycle must be repeated every 18 months. The cost is about $1,000 and isn’t covered by insurance.”

“Sleep apnea doesn’t just prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep,” says Dr. Kronick. “Lack of sleep affects many body systems including cardiovascular; GI tract -- putting a lot of other systems at increased risk for disease.” Chronic fatigue can also lead to anxiety and dementia, as well as workplace and highway accidents. It’s estimated that 20 million American suffer from some form of sleep disordered breathing.

The 20th edition of CPAP Chat is set for Wednesday, November 4 from 7 – 8 pm (ET). To join the conversation, just prior to the session (always the first Wednesday of each month at 7 pm - ET), call 1-800-204-6655, enter access code 342-2187#. Questions may be submitted in advance either via Facebook or email info@cpapchat.org . For more info, visit www.cpapchat.org . 

 - By Stanley Hurwitz / stanhurwitz@gmail.com