Sleep Apnea
Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnea
What it is, what it does to your health, and how we treat it — without CPAP.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious sleep disorder in which the airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing breathing to stop — sometimes hundreds of times per night. Each pause can last from a few seconds to over a minute, depriving the brain and body of oxygen, and putting stress on your heart. Most people with sleep apnea are completely unaware it is happening.
OSA is one of the most common sleep disorders in the United States, affecting an estimated 30 million adults — yet the majority remain undiagnosed. Left untreated, sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, dementia, type 2 diabetes, and motor vehicle accidents.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Sleep apnea often goes unrecognized because its most disruptive symptoms occur during sleep. Common warning signs include:
Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is far more than a snoring problem. Chronic oxygen deprivation and disrupted sleep place significant stress on the cardiovascular system and the entire body.
Heart Disease & Stroke
Repeated drops in blood oxygen levels strain the heart and increase the risk of high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, heart attack, and stroke.
Type 2 Diabetes
Sleep apnea disrupts glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, making it harder to manage or prevent type 2 diabetes.
Cognitive Impairment
Fragmented sleep impairs memory, concentration, and decision-making — and is associated with a higher long-term risk of dementia.
Daytime Fatigue & Accidents
Excessive daytime sleepiness caused by untreated OSA significantly increases the risk of workplace accidents and drowsy driving.
How We Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea
At Dental Sleep Solutions, we specialize in oral appliance therapy — a comfortable, quiet, and highly effective CPAP alternative worn during sleep that works by gently repositioning the jaw to keep the airway open.
Mandibular Advancement Devices
Custom-fitted oral appliances that hold the lower jaw slightly forward, preventing airway collapse. Covered by most medical insurance plans including Medicare.
Think You May Have Sleep Apnea?
A proper diagnosis is the first step. Contact our Greenville or McKinney office to schedule a consultation — we'll review your symptoms, discuss your options, and help you find a treatment that fits your life.