Sleep Apnea

People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and airflow stops. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.

Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to very serious cardiovascular problems. Additionally, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration.

Some patients have obstructions that are less severe called Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). In either case, the individuals suffer many of the same symptoms.

The first step in treatment resides in recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer consultation and treatment options.

In addition to a detailed history, the doctors will assess the anatomic relationships in the maxillofacial region. With cephalometric (skull x-ray) analysis, the doctors can ascertain the level of obstruction. Sometimes a naso-pharyngeal exam is done with a flexible fiber-optic camera. To confirm the amount of cardiovascular compromise and decreased oxygenation levels, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor an individual overnight.

There are several treatment options available. An initial treatment may consist of using a nasal CPAP machine that delivers pressurized oxygen through a nasal mask to limit obstruction at night. One of the surgical options is an uvulo-palato-pharyngo-plasty (UPPP), which is performed in the back of the soft palate and throat. A similar procedure is sometimes done with the assistance of a laser and is called a laser assisted uvulo-palato-plasty (LAUPP). In other cases, a radio-frequency probe is utilized to tighten the soft palate. These procedures usually performed under light IV sedation in the office.

In more complex cases, the bones of the upper and lower jaw may be repositioned to increase the size of the airway (orthognathic surgery). This procedure is done in the hospital under general anesthesia and requires a one to two day overnight stay in the hospital.

OSA is a very serious condition that needs careful attention and treatment. Most major medical plans offer coverage for diagnosis and treatment.

Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery of Western Mass

5 out of 5 stars based on 12 Sleep Apnea reviews

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Had a tooth extraction and bone graft with Dr. Kernizan. Best dental experience I've had. All went well. His staff put you at ease. It was painless and was over in a few minutes. I would highly recommend.

- Richard W

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Staff was exceptionally helpful! At every corner there was a new smile and a friendly face to help ease my dental anxiety. The doctors were very informative and answered all my questions with ease.

- Tina B

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I am terrified of the dentist. Even the mention of one. Ugh. DMD Max Kernizan, Thank you for your patience and understanding. You are one of a kind!

- Priscilla P

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Dr Max cared for a family members oral surgical needs. The care and compassion he had in a difficult situation truly warmed my heart. Thank you Dr Kernizian, you were amazing!!!

- Leenie B

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Im so happy I had them. I had such a bad infection from a broken tooth and they took such amazing care of me.

- Kelly S

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I find it difficult to accurately put into words how incredibly personable, helpful, genuine and knowledgeable this entire practice is. So often I have had experiences with medical professionals that make me feel like I don't know what I am talking about, and feel they are not listening to me or taking me seriously. One visit and because Dr. K and his assistant listened to me and gave me hope of feeling better, I walked out of that office the happiest I have felt in years!!! Thank you just does not express how grateful I am. I think Dr. K (sorry, about the abbreviations) is a leader in his field.

- Kimberly M

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All of the staff were very friendly and kind.Makes you feel like you are the only patient that is there.

- Richard D

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Thank you for your attention and having consideration of our last review and my feelings, this time we experienced the same great service, Im greatly appreciated.

- Kethzie L

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Thank you for the excellent care I recently received for teeth extractions. The only pain involved was MY unnecessary anxiety and childhood imagination! (I grew up next to a dentist and could hear the drill wizzing away all the time - I can still hear it!). Wow, how things have changed.I had 7 teeth extracted, done in a hour, and NO PAIN!!!! Thank you....

- Paul M

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Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I first saw Dr Spink in June of 2016. He has always been kind, caring and compassionate, especially when he had to tell me I had oral cancer. He clearly explained the surgery he and a plastic surgeon would be performing at the end of July. I have never doubted his expertise or his caring in treating me. I came through the surgery, which was performed at Baystate Medical Center, with flying colors. He had to remove a good part of my tongue and replace it with a radial forearm free flap.He also had to perform a neck dissection to make sure the cancer hadn't spread. I trust his good judgement and skill. I have already recommended him to two other people I know who are having oral problems. I am forever grateful to him and to the great staff of people who work at FCMS. They have taken great care of me!!

- Jackie R

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Dr. Fraziero was very informative about the procedure. He explained what he was going to do before he did it. He was professional and caring. A couple members of the staff, Dr. Fraziero and I all chatted throughout the procedure. It was a very relaxing atmosphere. I will highly recommend him, and I will certainly be going back! Thank you all so much for a wonderful experience.

- Deborah W

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As I've said, I have been miserable for weeks. Another dentist was not able to help me so referred me to Dr. Fraziero. I couldn't be happier with my experience and would recommend him to anyone who will listen!!!

- Holly W

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