Treatment of Sleep Apnea
An estimated 80 million people in North America snore. Including the spouses and children of snorers, up to 160 million people are negatively impacted by snoring. Snoring not only disrupts your sleep cycle but can also indicate a condition called sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the throat muscles fail to keep the airway open. When these muscles relax, the airway narrows or closes, preventing sufficient air intake and reducing blood oxygen levels. Your brain then briefly wakes you to reopen the airway, often without your awareness. This cycle repeats throughout the night, hindering your ability to achieve deep, restorative sleep.
At Town Center Dental, we create oral appliances that keep the airway open by positioning the lower jaw forward. These appliances are typically covered by insurance if you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea.

Common Sleep Apnea Symptoms
The most common symptoms of sleep apnea are listed below. Having one or more of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you have sleep apnea. Consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
- Very loud snoring
- Sleepiness and loss of energy during the day
- Painful headaches
- Restless sleep
- Insomnia and frequent awakenings
- Waking up with a dry or sore throat
- Nighttime gasping or choking sensations
- Sudden mood changes
- Poor concentration
- Frequent nighttime urination
What Are the Treatments for Sleep Apnea?
The treatment options for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea include surgery, CPAP or BiPAP machines, and oral appliance therapy. Oral appliances are often recommended for mild to moderate OSA due to their minimally invasive nature. These appliances are designed to comfortably hold the jaw in a specific position during sleep, promoting proper oxygen flow.
It's crucial to consult with your sleep physician to determine the best treatment approach for you. Once a suitable treatment plan is established and consistently followed, we can offer valuable support. If oral appliance therapy is chosen, it's important to ensure the appliance is designed and positioned correctly to effectively maintain your airway.


