Snoring and Sleep Apnea: More Than a Nighttime Nuisance
Snoring may seem like just an annoyance to your bed partner, but it can also signal something more serious. Sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, can impact your overall health in significant ways—causing fatigue, headaches, and even raising the risk of heart problems. At Gary Johnson DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Chico, Dr. Gary Johnson offers solutions that may surprise you: dentists can often help.
How Dentistry Fits Into Sleep Health
Sleep apnea is often linked to the way your airway functions at night. When the tongue or soft tissues in the throat collapse, airflow is blocked, leading to pauses in breathing. Dentists like Dr. Johnson can provide oral appliance therapy—custom-made devices that reposition the jaw or tongue to keep the airway open. These appliances are comfortable, portable, and often easier to use than a CPAP machine for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea.
Snoring Relief Through Oral Appliances
Not all snoring means sleep apnea, but it can still disrupt rest. Custom oral appliances made by your dentist can reduce snoring by gently adjusting the position of the jaw or tongue. Unlike store-bought devices, these are tailored to fit your mouth precisely, making them more comfortable and effective.
Signs You Should Talk to Your Dentist
You may benefit from a dental evaluation for snoring or sleep apnea if you:
Snore loudly or often
Wake up gasping for air
Experience morning headaches or dry mouth
Feel tired even after a full night’s sleep
Have been told you stop breathing during sleep
Sleep Apnea Care at Gary Johnson DDS in Chico, CA
Snoring and sleep apnea don’t just affect your sleep—they impact your health, energy, and quality of life. At Gary Johnson DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Gary Johnson provides custom oral appliance therapy that can make nights quieter and days more restful. If you suspect snoring or sleep apnea may be affecting you, call our Chico office or schedule a consultation online. A better night’s sleep could be closer than you think.