Dr. Nicole Dahlkemper was ecstatic about the “exciting new things” at Water’s Edge Dentistry. Her practice provides an array of services, including treatment for TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain and headaches; family and cosmetic dentistry; treatment for snoring and sleep apnea in children and adults; and Invisalign.
One noteworthy technological advance in dentistry is digital impressions. “We have a new digital scanner that makes 3D models of your teeth without using that gooey impression material,” she explained. “We use it to instantly take models of your teeth for Invisalign. We know patients are busy, and we are able to give multiple trays at a time so they are not constantly taking time off work for doctor visits. We offer individualized Invisalign treatment for each patient, addressing their specific concerns, customizing the proper plan and helping with payment plans to make it more affordable.”
Dr. Dahlkemper earned her DMD from Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine in Cleveland. She also holds a fellowship from Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, focusing on cosmetic dentistry and treating TMJ. She was awarded a fellowship with the Pierre Fauchard Academy, an international dental organization that recognizes leaders in the dental profession.
Recently, she passed a board exam to attain “Diplomate” status from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. “When you earn this certification, it shows you have the clinical understanding and experience with patients using oral appliances as successful treatment devices,” she said. “I work with my patients and their sleep physicians to identify the right oral appliance, then custom-fit devices to each patient, making any needed adjustments to ensure an open airway and more restful sleep.”
Dr. Dahlkemper’s commitment and knowledge in sleep medicine helps provide local residents with a better night’s rest. She looks forward to helping patients with snoring and diagnosed sleep apnea. Snoring can seem harmless — and it may be — but it also might indicate sleep apnea. “Talk to a professional and get evaluated. We lost a friend in his early 40s from complications of a sleep breathing disorder, so I want to do what I can to help prevent others from that same fate,” she said.
Dr. Dahlkemper has successfully treated patients who have had difficulty tolerating a CPAP device. She wants patients to know that there are options. “Please, do not go untreated. We will work with you and your physician to figure out what will work the best for you,” she added.
By John Torsiello