It’s estimated that as many as 18 million Americans have sleep apnea, according to the National Sleep Foundation. If you wake up feeling tired and groggy, it could be related to your oral health. Leading general dentists Drs. Susan Mazzei and Ashley Nguyen specialize in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea for patients throughout Warrenville, Illinois. Before going one more restless night, schedule an evaluation at West Suburban Oral Healthcare. You can book your appointment either online or over the phone.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a chronic sleep disorder where your breathing suddenly stops and starts.
With sleep apnea, you’re likely to tense your jaw and grind your teeth at night. As you tense up your teeth, your brain gets a signal to wake up and take a breath, which ultimately disrupts your night of sleep.
There are several different causes of sleep apnea, although they all result in disrupted sleep.
With obstructive sleep apnea, for instance, your throat muscles relax, resulting in collapsed airways. This can happen if you’re overweight since your airways can’t support the extra pressure as you lie down.
In some cases, your brain doesn’t send proper signals to control breathing. This is known as central sleep apnea.
Some patients have both issues – collapsed airways and signal issues – which is called complex sleep apnea syndrome.
Will I know if I have sleep apnea?
Possibly. Most men and women who have sleep apnea experience similar symptoms. You might have sleep apnea if you:
- Wake up feeling tired and groggy
- Snore throughout the night
- Have frequent morning headaches
- Experience difficulty concentrating
- Have difficulty staying asleep
- Are irritable or have mood swings
It’s common for patients to have no recollection of snoring or waking up frequently, but their partner’s night of sleep is often disrupted.
How does a dentist treat sleep apnea?
General dentists are often the first medical professionals to recognize and diagnose sleep apnea. Not only does your dentist notice the signs of grinding, but they’re also going to ask you about related symptoms, like sore jaws.
Drs. Susan Mazzei and Ashley Nguyen can help resolve sleep apnea issues by offering custom mouth guards (medically known as occlusal guards).
These mouth guards prevent nighttime grinding, so your brain doesn’t get the signal to wake up and breathe. Mouthguards can also help keep your lower jaw forward to help open up your airways.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea
How can I tell if my snoring is a sign of sleep apnea?
Occasional snoring can be harmless, especially if it occurs only when you are congested or sleeping on your back. However, snoring related to sleep apnea is often louder, more persistent, and interrupted by breathing pauses. A bed partner may notice choking sounds, gasping, or moments when breathing seems to stop entirely.
Other warning signs include waking with a dry mouth, difficulty staying alert during the day, or falling asleep easily in quiet situations. If snoring is accompanied by breathing interruptions or excessive fatigue, a medical evaluation is recommended to determine whether sleep apnea is present.
What are the risk factors for developing sleep apnea?
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing sleep apnea. Excess body weight, advancing age, and a family history of the condition are common contributors. Men are statistically at higher risk, though women can also develop sleep apnea, especially after menopause.
Lifestyle habits such as smoking and frequent alcohol use may worsen airway collapse during sleep. Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol before bedtime, and quitting smoking can help reduce risk and improve nighttime breathing.
Can children suffer from sleep apnea? What are the signs?
Yes. Children can experience sleep apnea, and symptoms may differ from those of adults. Instead of daytime sleepiness, children may appear hyperactive, struggle with attention, or have learning challenges. Loud snoring, mouth breathing, and restless sleep are also possible indicators.
Other signs may include bedwetting, frequent awakenings, or pauses in breathing observed by caregivers. If these symptoms are present, seeking evaluation from a pediatric healthcare provider can help determine whether sleep-disordered breathing is affecting your child’s health.
What are the potential health consequences of untreated sleep apnea?
Untreated sleep apnea can place strain on multiple body systems. Interrupted breathing lowers oxygen levels, which may contribute to elevated blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease. Poor sleep quality can also affect blood sugar regulation and mood stability.
Over time, chronic fatigue may impair concentration, memory, and overall quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment help reduce these risks and support long-term health without unnecessary alarm.
How effective are lifestyle changes in managing sleep apnea?
Lifestyle changes can significantly improve mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea. Weight reduction has been shown to reduce airway obstruction, and sleeping on your side rather than your back may reduce breathing interruptions. Avoiding alcohol close to bedtime can also improve airway stability.
While these adjustments can be helpful, they are often most effective when combined with professional treatment. A personalized care plan ensures that lifestyle improvements support measurable progress.
What should I expect during the sleep apnea diagnosis process?
Diagnosis typically begins with a review of symptoms and medical history. If sleep apnea is suspected, a sleep study may be recommended. This test monitors breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep cycles, either at a sleep center or through an approved home study device.
Dentists may recognize oral signs such as enamel wear from grinding and discuss related symptoms with patients. The diagnostic process is non-invasive and focused on gathering accurate information to guide treatment decisions.
Are there alternative treatments to CPAP for sleep apnea?
While CPAP therapy is widely known, alternative treatments are available. Custom oral appliances created by trained dentists can gently reposition the lower jaw to keep the airway more open during sleep. These devices are compact and easier for some patients to tolerate.
Other options may include positional therapy or surgical interventions, depending on severity and anatomy. Consulting with a qualified healthcare provider ensures that treatment is matched to your specific needs and comfort preferences.
If you think you have sleep apnea or haven’t found a successful solution after a diagnosis, book an evaluation at West Suburban Oral Healthcare either online, or over the phone.
Dr. Susan Mazzei is a skilled dentist specializing in prosthodontics. A
graduate of Northwestern
University Dental School, she completed a Certification in Prosthodontics before joining
the
faculty of Northwestern University Dental School as a Clinical Assistant Professor, where she
served for 12 years and became Assistant Professor Emeritus. Dr. Mazzei believes that excellent
oral health begins with education and prevention and is committed to continuing her education.
She is a Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach, a Charter Fellow in the American Academy of
Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH), and has completed the Bale and Doneen Method Preceptorship
Program.
Connect with Dr. Susan Mazzei on Linkedin
Dr. Marco Fajardo is a graduate of Northwestern University Dental School, where
he also served
as a part-time Assistant Clinical Instructor. He was a member of the University Dental
Associates of the University of Chicago too. In 1994, he formed the basis of West
Suburban Oral
Healthcare with Dr. Mazzei. He is now its Team Leader.
Dr. Ashley Nguyen studied at the University of Buffalo and Midwestern University in Downers
Grove, IL (dental school). She is a member of the ADA, CDS, IDS, and other local organizations.
She continues her education by attending dental conferences and seminars.
