Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder that disrupts your breathing while you sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most prevalent form, occurs when your airway becomes blocked, often by the tongue or other soft tissues collapsing at the back of the throat. These obstructions cause brief pauses in breathing, which can lead to poor sleep quality and impact your health. Untreated sleep apnea is associated with numerous health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease and increased risk of stroke.

Signs of Sleep Apnea

Diagnosing sleep apnea requires a sleep study conducted by a licensed sleep physician. However, recognizing the signs and seeking timely care are crucial first steps. Common symptoms include:

  • Daytime drowsiness
  • Morning headaches
  • Difficulty staying asleep
  • Waking with a sore or dry throat

Snoring is also a frequent sign of OSA, as the airflow struggles to pass through a restricted airway, producing the familiar snoring sound. If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms, it may be time to consider an evaluation.

Oral Appliance Therapy

At Padre Island Family Dentistry, we offer treatment options for mild to moderate cases of obstructive sleep apnea through custom-made oral appliances. These devices are designed to support your jaw in a position that helps maintain an open airway throughout the night. By preventing the tongue and other soft tissues from collapsing and blocking the airway, oral appliances can significantly reduce snoring and other symptoms of OSA to improve your sleep quality. Our oral appliances are carefully fitted to ensure comfort and effectiveness, making them an excellent alternative for those who may find CPAP machines challenging to use.

Oral appliances not only provide a practical solution for sleep apnea but also address snoring, offering benefits to both you and your sleeping partner. This treatment can help improve sleep for everyone involved, which can have a positive impact on your mood, energy levels and overall health.

Our dentist and team understand how disruptive sleep apnea and snoring can be, and we are here to help you take control of your health. If you suspect sleep apnea or struggle with persistent snoring, we encourage you to contact our office at 361-589-4090 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Sophie Nabavi. We are committed to providing personalized, professional care and helping you explore effective treatment options. With the right approach to sleep apnea and snoring treatment in Corpus Christi, Texas, you can enjoy restful nights and better overall health. Let us help you find a solution for improved sleep and wellbeing.