Snoring and sleep apnea can affect much more than your sleep. At Elite Orthodontics, we understand how airway health, jaw structure, and orthodontic development can play a role in breathing and sleep quality for both children and adults. Dr. Nader Ehsani and Dr. Sherry Sabet take a comprehensive approach to evaluating sleep-related breathing concerns and work alongside medical professionals when appropriate to help improve overall health and quality of life.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep-related breathing condition in which airflow is repeatedly reduced or blocked during sleep. These breathing pauses can last 10 seconds or longer and may occur multiple times throughout the night. Because breathing is interrupted, the body receives less oxygen and struggles to reach deep, restorative sleep.
What Are the Common Signs of Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea can present differently in adults and children, and symptoms may go unnoticed for years. Common signs include:
- Loud or frequent snoring
- Gasping, choking, or coughing during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Daytime fatigue or unintended naps
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
- Mood changes such as irritability or anxiety
- Increased heart rate upon waking
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
In children, additional signs may include:
- Hyperactivity or attention challenges
- Learning or behavioral difficulties
- Nighttime bedwetting
- Mouth breathing or restless sleep
- Why Is Sleep Apnea a Concern?
Sleep apnea is more than a nighttime nuisance. When left untreated, it can increase the risk of serious health conditions. Ongoing interruptions in breathing place stress on the heart and body, which may contribute to:
- High blood pressure
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Weakened immune function
- Increased risk of accidents due to fatigue
Because sleep apnea can affect patients of all ages, early recognition and evaluation are important.
What Happens in the Body During a Sleep Apnea Episode?
During sleep, the muscles of the tongue and throat relax. In some individuals, this relaxation allows the jaw and tongue to fall backward, narrowing or blocking the airway. When airflow is restricted:
- Oxygen levels drop
- Blood pressure and heart rate increase
- The brain briefly wakes the body to restart breathing
These repeated interruptions prevent deep sleep, leaving individuals feeling exhausted even after a full night in bed.
How Can Orthodontics Support Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Orthodontic care can play a supportive role in addressing sleep-related breathing concerns, especially when jaw structure or dental development contributes to airway restriction. Treatment may focus on:
- Improving jaw position and alignment
- Creating more space in the mouth and airway
- Supporting healthier breathing patterns
For children, growth-focused orthodontic treatment may help guide jaw development. For adults, orthodontic care may be part of a broader treatment plan coordinated with medical providers.
When Should You Seek Help for Sleep Apnea?
If you or your child experiences ongoing snoring, breathing disruptions during sleep, or persistent daytime fatigue, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. Early assessment can help identify contributing factors and determine whether orthodontic support or referral to a sleep specialist is appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sleep apnea can raise many questions for patients and families. Below are answers to common concerns to help you better understand this condition.
Can Sleep Apnea Affect Children as Well as Adults?
Yes. Sleep apnea can occur at any age. In children, it may appear as behavioral or learning challenges rather than daytime sleepiness.
Is Snoring Always a Sign of Sleep Apnea?
Not always, but loud or frequent snoring can be a warning sign. A professional evaluation can help determine whether snoring is related to airway obstruction.
Can Orthodontic Treatment Replace Medical Sleep Apnea Care?
Orthodontic treatment does not replace medical care but may support overall airway health. In many cases, orthodontists work alongside physicians or sleep specialists.
How Is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a medical evaluation and may include a sleep study. Orthodontists help identify structural factors that may contribute to breathing issues.
What Are the Next Steps If Sleep Apnea Is Suspected?
If sleep apnea is suspected, your orthodontist may recommend further evaluation with a medical provider and discuss treatment options based on individual needs.
