Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It affects millions of people—and many don't know they have it. Left untreated, it can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other health problems. The good news? It's treatable. And your dentist may be one of the first to notice the signs. Here's what to watch for and when to seek evaluation.
Common Signs and Symptoms
- Loud snoring — Especially if it's interrupted by gasping or choking sounds
- Pauses in breathing — Often noticed by a bed partner
- Excessive daytime sleepiness — Despite spending enough time in bed
- Morning headaches — Waking with a headache can be a sign of oxygen deprivation during the night
- Difficulty concentrating — Brain fog, memory issues, irritability
- Waking with a dry mouth or sore throat
- High blood pressure — Sleep apnea is linked to hypertension
- Mood changes — Depression, anxiety, or irritability
Signs Your Dentist May Notice
Dentists are trained to look for oral signs of sleep apnea:
- Worn teeth — From grinding, which is common in people with sleep apnea
- A narrow airway — Visible in the back of the mouth
- Large tongue or tonsils — Can contribute to airway obstruction
- Bruxism — Teeth grinding is often associated with sleep apnea
If your dentist notices these signs, they may recommend a sleep study or referral to a sleep specialist.
Types of Sleep Apnea
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) — The most common type. The airway collapses or becomes blocked during sleep. Often related to soft tissue in the throat.
- Central sleep apnea — The brain doesn't send proper signals to breathe. Less common.
Why It Matters
Untreated sleep apnea doesn't just leave you tired—it strains your heart, raises blood pressure, and increases the risk of serious health events. Treatment can improve sleep quality, energy, and long-term health. Options include CPAP machines, oral appliances (fitted by a dentist), lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery.
What to Do
If you or your bed partner notice these signs, talk to your doctor or a sleep specialist. A sleep study can confirm the diagnosis. Your dentist may be able to provide an oral appliance as part of your treatment plan. Don't ignore the signs—your health depends on it.
The Bottom Line
Sleep apnea is common, underdiagnosed, and treatable. Pay attention to the signs. If you're snoring loudly, exhausted during the day, or have been told you stop breathing at night, get evaluated. Treatment can change your life.