What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder that affects how a person breathes during sleep. Many people live with sleep apnea for years without realizing it, often blaming fatigue, snoring, or poor sleep quality on stress or aging. Left untreated, sleep apnea can impact overall health, daily energy levels, and long term wellness. Understanding what sleep apnea is, how it develops, and what treatment options are available is the first step toward better sleep and better health.

At Imperial Dental Associates, we help patients recognize the signs of sleep apnea and explore comfortable, effective options for sleep apnea treatment. With proper care and guidance, many people experience improved sleep, increased focus, and a better quality of life.

Understanding Sleep Apnea and How It Affects the Body

Sleep apnea occurs when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses in breathing can last from a few seconds to over a minute and may happen dozens of times per hour. Each interruption briefly wakes the brain, even if the person does not remember waking up. This constant disruption prevents the body from reaching deep, restorative sleep.

There are several types of sleep apnea, with obstructive sleep apnea being the most common. Obstructive sleep apnea happens when the muscles in the throat relax too much during sleep, causing the airway to become partially or fully blocked. When airflow is restricted, oxygen levels drop, and the brain signals the body to wake up and resume breathing.

Over time, this cycle places strain on the heart, lungs, and nervous system. Poor sleep quality can lead to chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, and an increased risk of health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. Because symptoms often occur during sleep, many people remain undiagnosed until a partner notices loud snoring or breathing pauses.

Common Signs and Risk Factors of Sleep Apnea

Recognizing the symptoms of sleep apnea is essential for early diagnosis and effective care. Loud, persistent snoring is one of the most common warning signs, especially when accompanied by choking, gasping, or snorting sounds during sleep. However, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, and not everyone with sleep apnea snores loudly.

Daytime symptoms often include excessive sleepiness, morning headaches, dry mouth upon waking, irritability, and difficulty focusing. Some individuals experience memory problems or feel unrefreshed even after a full night of sleep. These symptoms can affect work performance, relationships, and overall well being.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing sleep apnea. These include excess weight, a narrow airway, large tonsils, or a jaw structure that restricts airflow. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol use can also contribute by relaxing airway muscles. Sleep apnea affects both men and women and can occur at any age, although it becomes more common as people get older.

Dental professionals play an important role in identifying possible signs of sleep apnea. During routine dental visits, changes in oral anatomy, tooth wear from nighttime grinding, or reports of snoring may prompt a conversation about further evaluation.

How Sleep Apnea Is Diagnosed and Treated

Diagnosing sleep apnea typically begins with a medical evaluation and a sleep study. Sleep studies can be conducted in a sleep center or at home, depending on the individual’s needs. These studies measure breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep stages to determine whether sleep apnea is present and how severe it may be.

Once diagnosed, treatment options depend on the type and severity of sleep apnea. Continuous positive airway pressure, commonly known as CPAP therapy, is a well known treatment that uses air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep. While CPAP can be effective, some patients find it uncomfortable or difficult to use consistently.

For patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy offers an alternative solution. Custom dental appliances are designed to reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open throughout the night. These appliances are small, portable, and often easier to tolerate than CPAP machines.

At Imperial Dental Associates, we work with patients who are seeking personalized sleep apnea treatment using custom oral appliances. These devices are carefully fitted for comfort and effectiveness, helping many patients reduce snoring, improve airflow, and achieve more restful sleep. 

Benefits of Vivos Therapy for Sleep Apnea

Vivos therapy is an innovative approach designed to address the underlying causes of obstructive sleep apnea rather than only managing the symptoms. Unlike traditional options that focus on keeping the airway open during sleep, Vivos therapy works by gently guiding natural jaw and airway development over time. This can lead to improved airflow and more stable breathing during sleep.

One of the key benefits of Vivos therapy is that it uses customized oral appliances that are worn for specific periods, often during sleep and sometimes for short daytime sessions. These appliances are designed to be comfortable and non-invasive, making them easier for many patients to tolerate compared to bulky equipment. Because the appliances are custom fitted, they are tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and treatment goals.

Vivos therapy may also help reduce reliance on long term devices such as CPAP machines or nightly oral appliances. By focusing on structural improvement, some patients experience lasting benefits even after completing treatment. This approach can be especially appealing for patients who want a more comprehensive solution for sleep apnea treatment and snoring concerns.

In addition to improving sleep quality, patients often report increased energy, better focus, and fewer nighttime disruptions. By supporting healthier breathing patterns, Vivos therapy can play a role in improving overall wellness and long term health outcomes.

The Importance of Treating Sleep Apnea Early

Treating sleep apnea is about more than just improving sleep quality. Untreated sleep apnea can have serious consequences for overall health. Repeated drops in oxygen levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attack and stroke. Sleep apnea has also been linked to metabolic conditions, weakened immune function, and mental health concerns.

Early intervention can help prevent these complications and support long term health. Patients who receive appropriate care often report increased energy, better focus, improved mood, and fewer nighttime disruptions. Partners and family members may also notice quieter sleep and fewer breathing interruptions.

Dental based treatment options provide a collaborative approach to sleep care. By working alongside physicians and sleep specialists, dental professionals help ensure patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs. Regular follow up appointments allow adjustments to be made, ensuring the oral appliance continues to fit properly and function effectively.

Addressing sleep apnea early can also improve daily safety. Excessive daytime sleepiness increases the risk of accidents at work and on the road. Restful sleep supports clearer thinking, quicker reaction times, and better decision making.

Take the Next Step Toward Healthier Sleep

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can quietly affect health, energy, and quality of life. Understanding the symptoms and seeking professional care can make a meaningful difference. With modern diagnostic tools and comfortable treatment options available, many patients find lasting relief. Imperial Dental Associates is committed to helping patients achieve healthier sleep through personalized care and proven solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea Treatment

Can a dentist really help with sleep apnea?

Yes, dentists trained in sleep medicine can provide custom oral appliances that help keep the airway open during sleep. These devices are often recommended for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.

How long does it take to see results from an oral appliance?

Many patients notice improvements in snoring and sleep quality within the first few nights of use. Follow up visits help fine tune the appliance to ensure long term comfort and effectiveness.

At Imperial Dental Associates, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve better oral health and overall wellness through personalized care. Our team takes a patient focused approach to identifying sleep related concerns and offering comfortable solutions. If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, we are here to help guide you toward effective treatment options. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.