Sleep Apnea

Do I Have Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. If you snore loudly and feel tired even after a full night's sleep, you might have sleep apnea. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea, occurs when throat muscles relax and block the airway during sleep.

Treatment for sleep apnea is available at Southern Cal Smiles: Susan Fredericks, D.D.S, M.P.H. in Woodland Hills and the surrounding area. Dental appliances can be an effective treatment option for mild to moderate sleep apnea. Call us at (818) 657-8055 to learn more.

"Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts."

Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

• Loud snoring
• Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep (reported by another person)
• Gasping for air during sleep
• Awakening with a dry mouth
• Morning headache
• Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
• Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
• Difficulty paying attention while awake
• Irritability

Dental Appliances for Sleep Apnea

Oral appliances are an effective treatment option for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). An oral appliance fits like a sports mouth guard or an orthodontic retainer. It supports the jaw in a forward position to help maintain an open upper airway. These devices are worn only during sleep.

A dentist trained in dental sleep medicine can provide a custom-fit oral appliance for the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea. Custom-fit oral appliances are more effective than over-the-counter devices, which are not recommended as a screening tool or as a treatment option.

"An oral appliance fits like a sports mouth guard or an orthodontic retainer. It supports the jaw in a forward position to help maintain an open upper airway."

Frequently Asked Questions