What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses in breathing can last from a few seconds to over a minute and may occur dozens or even hundreds of times per night.
There are three main types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form, caused by the relaxation of throat muscles that block the airway.
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
- Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A combination of both OSA and CSA.
At White Plains Family Dental Arts, we specialize in the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea, which is commonly linked to oral and airway anatomy—making dentists uniquely equipped to help identify and treat this condition.
A Brief History of Sleep Apnea
Although sleep apnea has only been widely studied in the last few decades, its symptoms have been described as far back as ancient times. The term “obstructive sleep apnea” was first used in the 1960s, and the condition gained further attention in the 1980s when the dangers of untreated sleep apnea became clear.
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines became a standard treatment in the late 1980s and 1990s, but over the years, oral appliance therapy has gained significant popularity—especially for patients who find CPAP difficult to tolerate.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea symptoms can vary, but the most common signs include:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Irritability or mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
- Restless sleep or frequent awakenings
Many patients are unaware they even have sleep apnea until a partner notices snoring or pauses in breathing. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a consultation with our team in White Plains, NY.
Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to several serious health conditions, including:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Weight gain and metabolic disorders
- Memory and cognitive issues
- Depression and anxiety
Poor sleep quality doesn’t just affect how you feel—it affects your heart, brain, and overall physical health. Early intervention can significantly reduce your risk of developing these complications.
Diagnosing Sleep Apnea
If you or a loved one suspects sleep apnea, don’t wait. Diagnosis starts with a clinical consultation, where we review your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors.
We may recommend a home sleep test (HST) or refer you to a sleep specialist for an in-lab polysomnography—a comprehensive overnight sleep study. Both methods can monitor your oxygen levels, breathing patterns, heart rate, and brain activity during sleep to confirm a diagnosis.
Once diagnosed, the next step is finding the right treatment option.
Sleep Apnea Treatments in White Plains
At White Plains Family Dental Arts, we believe in personalized, patient-centered care. We offer non-invasive oral appliance therapy as an effective alternative to CPAP for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea.
Oral Appliance Therapy
These custom-made dental devices are worn while you sleep. They gently reposition the lower jaw and tongue forward to keep the airway open. Benefits include:
- Comfortable and easy to wear
- Quiet and non-invasive
- Portable and travel-friendly
- Often covered by medical insurance
Many patients prefer oral appliances because they’re less bulky and easier to use consistently compared to CPAP machines. They also help reduce or eliminate snoring, improving sleep quality for both you and your partner.
CPAP Therapy
In some cases, CPAP may still be recommended—particularly for severe sleep apnea. We work closely with local sleep specialists to ensure patients receive the most effective care, whether that’s a CPAP or a dental device.
Lifestyle Modifications
In addition to medical devices, we may recommend supportive strategies such as:
- Weight loss (if applicable)
- Avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed
- Positional therapy (encouraging side sleeping)
- Treating nasal congestion
Who Is a Candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy?
You may be a good candidate if:
- You’ve been diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA
- You snore loudly but don’t have severe oxygen desaturation
- You’ve tried a CPAP machine and found it uncomfortable or intolerable
- You’re looking for a more convenient, travel-friendly solution
Our team will work closely with your sleep physician to determine if an oral appliance is appropriate for your condition.
Why Choose White Plains Family Dental Arts?
At White Plains Family Dental Arts, we combine advanced dental technology with compassionate care. Our team is highly experienced in fitting FDA-approved sleep apnea appliances and monitoring their effectiveness.
You’ll benefit from:
- A thorough consultation and digital airway screening
- Custom impressions and 3D scans for a perfect fit
- Ongoing follow-ups to ensure optimal results
- Collaboration with your sleep specialist or primary care physician
We’re proud to be a trusted provider of sleep apnea treatment in White Plains, helping patients reclaim restful nights and energized days.
Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep
Sleep apnea doesn’t have to control your life. If you’re tired of feeling tired, or if your partner is urging you to stop snoring, schedule a consultation with White Plains Family Dental Arts today. Our team is here to guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and beyond—so you can sleep soundly again.
