Snoring may seem like a nuisance, but for many people, it signals a deeper health concern. At Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center, we help patients understand and manage obstructive sleep issues that disrupt their rest and impact long-term wellness. If you struggle with fatigue, loud snoring, or interrupted sleep, learning more about this condition is the first step toward feeling better.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Breathing Disruptions That Happen While You Sleep
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition in which your airway becomes blocked during rest, often due to relaxed throat muscles. These episodes may cause you to stop breathing briefly throughout the night, sometimes hundreds of times. Each pause reduces oxygen levels and interrupts deep, restorative sleep — often without your awareness.
Over time, these repeated disturbances strain your body and can lead to serious health concerns. The Sleep Foundation reports that millions of Americans experience OSA without knowing it, making early awareness essential.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Who’s Most at Risk?
This condition can affect anyone, but several risk factors may make it more likely:
- Excess weight
- Family history
- Male gender
- Use of alcohol or sedatives
- Smaller airway or enlarged tonsils
- Chronic nasal congestion
Even without these risk factors, people may develop breathing problems during sleep — which is why symptom recognition is so important.
Signs You May Have a Breathing Disorder at Night
Some of the most common warning signs include:
- Loud or frequent snoring
- Gasping or choking while sleeping
- Excessive tiredness during the day
- Mood swings or trouble focusing
- Morning headaches or dry mouth
If these sound familiar, explore our Sleep Apnea Symptoms page or reach out to schedule an evaluation.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Get the Answers — and Relief — You Need
Our team offers comprehensive testing and custom treatment plans based on your needs. For many patients, oral appliance therapy provides an effective alternative to CPAP machines — using a small device worn like a mouthguard to keep the airway open during rest.
- Oral appliance therapy
- Referrals for CPAP or surgical evaluation (if needed)
- Lifestyle guidance and follow-up care
Why Smile On Dental?
Care Rooted in Comfort and Expertise
From diagnosis to ongoing support, our team is here to help you sleep and feel better. We provide personalized care at our Lakeview and Deerfield locations, using advanced tools and a compassionate approach to get real results.
If you’re ready to explore your options and start sleeping more soundly, schedule a consultation today.