If you wake up tired no matter how long you sleep, or your partner complains about your snoring, sleep apnea could be the reason. Many people have it for years without knowing. Treating it can make a real difference in how you feel every day, and some cases can be managed through dental care.
Because sleep apnea affects the mouth and jaw, dentists are often the first to spot the signs. At Singh Smile Care in Glendale, we look for them during routine exams. If something stands out, we will talk you through it and help you take the next step.
What Sleep Apnea Is
With obstructive sleep apnea, the upper airway narrows or closes during sleep. Your breathing becomes shallow or stops for a moment, then usually starts again with a gasp or a snort. This strains the muscles that control breathing and keeps you from getting deep, restful sleep.
Sleep apnea is classed as a sleep-related breathing disorder, one of several categories of sleep disorders. It can also contribute to other sleep problems.
Common Causes
The airway is often blocked when the throat muscles relax too much during sleep. A large tongue or a small jaw can also narrow the space for air. Teeth grinding (bruxism) is sometimes an early clue. Grinding wears down teeth and inflames the gums, and we may notice those changes during an exam before you notice any sleep symptoms.
- Relaxed throat muscles during sleep
- A large tongue or a small jaw
- Teeth grinding, worn teeth, or gum recession
Signs to Watch For
Age, being male, and habits like heavy drinking, smoking, and a poor diet raise the risk. Common warning signs include a sore throat in the morning, sleepiness during the day, restless sleep, waking often at night, high blood pressure, and acid reflux. Children show it differently. Bedwetting, choking or drooling in sleep, night sweating, and trouble at school can all point to a sleep problem.
- Morning sore throat
- Daytime sleepiness
- Waking often at night
- High blood pressure or reflux
- In kids: bedwetting, night sweats, school trouble
How It Is Treated
For many patients, a custom oral appliance is the first option. It is made from impressions of your teeth, fitted in the office, and adjusted as needed. You may need a follow-up sleep test to confirm it is working. Because it runs on no power at all, packing it for a trip is simple. More severe cases may call for a CPAP machine or surgery. We will help you understand which path fits your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is snoring always a sign of sleep apnea?
No. Plenty of people snore without having sleep apnea. The pattern to watch for is loud, deep, steady snoring broken up by gasps, choking sounds, or pauses in breathing. If that sounds familiar, it is worth talking to a doctor or dentist.
What happens if sleep apnea goes untreated?
It can take a toll on your health. Sleep apnea is linked to high blood pressure and heart disease, and waking repeatedly through the night puts ongoing stress on the body. Treatment helps you rest and lowers those risks.
Can I travel with sleep apnea?
Yes. Bring your oral appliance or CPAP machine with you, especially on longer trips, so your treatment stays on track while you are away from home.
How common is sleep apnea?
Very common. The American Sleep Apnea Association estimates that more than 20 million Americans have it, and many moderate to severe cases are never diagnosed. That is one reason we keep an eye out for the signs at your dental visits.
Can sleep apnea be cured?
There is no cure, but the symptoms can be managed well. With the right appliance or treatment, most people sleep better and feel better during the day.
Tired of Being Tired?
Call (623) 400-6009 or book online, and we will check for signs of sleep apnea at your next visit.
