How to Tell if Snoring Is a Sign of Sleep Apnea

Woman plugging her hears as man snores heavily while sleeping in bed. Snoring is common, and most of the time it’s nothing more than a minor annoyance. But if your snoring is loud, frequent, or paired with fatigue during the day, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. 

At Gentle Dental Care, our dentists can examine your symptoms and determine if it’s time to take action.

Dr. Brad Strober, Dr. Cynthia Butcofski, and Dr. Rebecca Kucharsky Hiess have years of experience identifying the signs of sleep-disordered breathing. Whether you’re in Edison or Highland Park, New Jersey, we’ll help you figure out what your snoring might mean.

When Snoring Could Be a Red Flag

Not all snoring is linked to sleep apnea, but here are a few signs that it might be:

  • You stop breathing during the night
  • You gasp for air while sleeping
  • You snore loudly most nights
  • You wake up feeling tired, even after a full night’s sleep
  • You experience frequent morning headaches
  • You have trouble staying focused or alert during the day

It’s usually your partner who notices these patterns first, but you can use sleep tracking apps or recordings to reveal breathing disruptions you might not be aware of.

About Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea happens when the soft tissues in the back of your throat relax too much during sleep and block your airway. This causes your breathing to stop and start throughout the night. You experience restless sleep that leaves you feeling drained the next day, even if you don’t remember waking up.

Sleep apnea can affect your heart, blood pressure, and even memory if left untreated. That’s why it’s important to get a proper evaluation if you suspect something is off.

How a Dentist Can Help

Many people are surprised to learn that dentists can provide sleep apnea care. We can assess your risk and potentially fit you for a custom oral appliance to help keep your airway open while you sleep. They’re a comfortable and practical alternative to a CPAP machine.

Get Answers About Your Snoring and Sleep Health

If snoring is affecting your sleep and your energy during the day, call Gentle Dental Care at 732-549-5660. Let’s schedule an appointment to discuss the possibility of sleep apnea at our office in Edison, NJ. We serve patients from Highland Park and surrounding areas.

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Location Map: 2060 Oak Tree Road Edison, NJ 08820

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