Veterans
We were founded by veterans.
Dr. Pagano served on active duty in the United States Army and continues to serve as a reservist as a general dentist. Dr. Vaughan left the United States Army as a captain, where he served as a general dentist. While they never crossed paths during their service, they both witnessed the impact sleep apnea and orofacial pain can have on the men and women who serve in our armed forces.
While serving, Dr. Pagano was selected to help lead a pilot program that would replace traditional CPAP machines with dental appliances to treat sleep apnea. His program was so successful that he was asked to train other dentists in the Army in his methods.
During his service, Dr. Vaughan spearheaded a training program in the use of CAD/CAM technology to harness existing digital technology to make dental restorations and appliances more efficient and more accurately.
They bring this experience and their expertise to our practice.
A 2017 study tracked the increased prevalence of SBD (sleep-disordered breathing) in members of the active military. Their symptoms included snoring, obstructed airways, and all the conditions that lead to sleep apnea. Service members joined a cohort of occupations that shared a number of similarities: A heightened level of alertness; irregular schedules, long hours, and more. No matter the rank, duty, or task, a disrupted sleep pattern is detrimental to the performance of a person that must perform at a high level of readiness.
The patterns developed during service continue after someone has left active duty. Exposure to combat or trauma and exposure to irritants in the field can continue to impact the ability of veterans to sleep.
The experiences of our doctors can help veterans experience better sleep. We work to help them access their VA benefits, which in most cases will cover most if not all of the cost of our treatment plans. We’ll make certain that you have the documentation needed to make the most of it.