What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the soft tissues at the back of the throat collapse and block the airway.

These breathing interruptions can occur dozens or even hundreds of times per night, disrupting sleep and decreasing oxygen levels, which puts your heart and brain at risk.

Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed because symptoms occur during sleep. Common warning signs include:

• Loud snoring
  
• Waking up gasping or choking
  
• Morning headaches or dry mouth
  
• Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
  
• Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
  
• Mood swings or irritability
  
• High blood pressure or heart issues
  

If you or your partner notice any of these symptoms, it's important to seek diagnosis and treatment. We work closely with sleep physicians to coordinate care and provide effective alternatives to CPAP.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

Several factors can contribute to obstructive sleep apnea, including:

• Excess weight or obesity
  
• Narrow airway or large tonsils
  
• Family history of sleep disorders
  
• Smoking or alcohol use
  
• Chronic nasal congestion
  
• Age (risk increases with age)
  
• Gender (men are more likely to develop OSA)
  

If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious complications such as hypertension, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and cognitive decline.

Sleep Apnea Treatment Options at Foundation Dental

While CPAP therapy is a common solution, many patients find it uncomfortable or difficult to use consistently. That’s why we offer oral appliance therapy — a highly effective, CPAP-alternative approved by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

Custom Oral Sleep Appliances

These small, custom-fitted devices gently reposition the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. They are:

• Quiet and discreet
  
• Comfortable and easy to wear
  
• Travel-friendly and non-invasive
  
• Proven to reduce snoring and apnea episodes
  

Your oral appliance is designed using precise digital impressions and adjusted for maximum comfort and effectiveness. We also coordinate with your sleep physician and help monitor your progress long-term.

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy

• Improved breathing and uninterrupted sleep
  
• Reduction or elimination of snoring
  
• Increased daytime energy and alertness
  
• Lowered risk of serious health conditions
  
• Enhanced mood, memory, and focus
  
• Non-surgical, medication-free treatment
  

If you're already using a CPAP and want an alternative, or if you've been diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA, oral appliance therapy may be the perfect solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the causes of sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is caused by airway obstruction during sleep, typically due to relaxed throat muscles, excess weight, anatomical issues, or certain lifestyle factors like alcohol use and smoking.

Can I live a long life with sleep apnea?

Yes — with proper treatment. Untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, but with management (such as oral appliance therapy or CPAP), you can maintain long-term health and quality of life.

What are the warning signs of sleep apnea?

Key warning signs include loud snoring, frequent nighttime awakenings, gasping for air during sleep, morning headaches, and persistent daytime fatigue.

How to relieve sleep apnea?

Lifestyle changes (like weight loss and avoiding alcohol), using a CPAP or oral appliance, and sleeping on your side can all help relieve symptoms. We offer oral appliance therapy for a non-CPAP alternative.