At Jacksonville Gentle Dentistry, we believe your health goes far beyond your smile. One condition we often see signs of—but that many patients don’t know they have—is sleep apnea. This common sleep disorder silently robs millions of people of restful sleep and good health every night.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when the muscles at the back of your throat relax too much, blocking your airway. When this happens, your brain wakes you up just enough to resume breathing—sometimes hundreds of times a night.
You may not remember waking up, but your body does. Over time, sleep apnea can contribute to serious health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic fatigue.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Many people go years without knowing they have sleep apnea. Some of the most common signs include:
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Loud or chronic snoring
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Waking up gasping or choking
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Morning headaches
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Feeling tired despite a full night's sleep
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Trouble focusing or mood swings
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to take them seriously.
How Your Dentist Can Help
You might be surprised to learn that your dentist plays a key role in identifying and treating sleep apnea. At Jacksonville Gentle Dentistry, our team is trained to spot oral signs of sleep apnea and offer non-invasive treatment options.
For many patients, a custom oral appliance—similar to a mouthguard—can help keep the airway open during sleep. It’s a comfortable and effective alternative to CPAP machines for those with mild to moderate OSA.
Ready to Sleep Better?
If you or a loved one is struggling with poor sleep, don’t wait. At Jacksonville Gentle Dentistry, we combine gentle care with advanced solutions to help you breathe easier and rest better.
Schedule a consultation today to learn if a dental sleep appliance is right for you. A better night’s sleep starts with a conversation.
Call (904) 731-1919