Personalized care close to home, so you can wake up feeling refreshed again.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night, often without the person realizing it. Left untreated, sleep apnea can disrupt sleep quality and place ongoing strain on the heart, brain, and overall health.
Because symptoms happen during sleep, many people live with sleep apnea in Hickory, NC, for years before receiving a diagnosis.
What Causes Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea develops when airflow is restricted during sleep, often due to physical or lifestyle-related factors.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the throat relax during sleep, causing the airway to partially or completely collapse. This leads to repeated pauses in breathing that interrupt sleep and reduce oxygen levels throughout the night.
Anatomical Features
Certain physical features can narrow the airway and increase the risk of sleep apnea. These may include enlarged tonsils, a larger tongue, a smaller jaw, or increased neck circumference.
Lifestyle & Health Factors
Excess weight, smoking, and alcohol use can contribute to airway obstruction during sleep. Sleeping on the back may also increase the likelihood of airway collapse in some individuals.
Age & Genetics
The risk of sleep apnea increases with age as muscle tone naturally decreases over time. A family history of sleep apnea can also raise the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Sleep apnea often shows up through a pattern of nighttime and daytime symptoms, including:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Daytime fatigue or grogginess
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
If these symptoms sound familiar, book a consultation as your first step toward better sleep and health.
Why Treat Sleep Apnea?
High Blood Pressure
Sleep apnea causes repeated drops in oxygen levels, which can place stress on blood vessels and raise blood pressure. Over time, untreated sleep apnea can make blood pressure harder to control.
Risk of Heart Disease & Stroke
Interrupted breathing and reduced oxygen can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular conditions. Treating sleep apnea may help reduce strain on the heart and lower long-term risk.
Diabetes Complications
Sleep apnea can interfere with how the body regulates blood sugar. In people with diabetes, untreated sleep apnea may make blood sugar management more difficult.
Decreased Quality of Life
Poor sleep affects energy, mood, focus, and overall daily function. Many patients report noticeable improvements in alertness and well-being once treatment begins.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help protect your health and restore more consistent, restful sleep.
Effective Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
Custom Oral Appliances (Dental Sleep Apnea Therapy)
At Hickory Dental Care, we focus on comfortable, practical solutions for patients struggling with sleep apnea. Custom oral appliances are discreet, custom-made mouthpieces that gently reposition the jaw or tongue to keep the airway open during sleep.
This approach to sleep apnea treatment is less invasive than many traditional options and does not rely on masks, tubing, or machines. Patients often appreciate how quiet, portable, and easy these appliances are to use, especially for travel or nightly comfort.
CPAP & PAP Devices
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy remains one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for sleep apnea. CPAP works by delivering a steady stream of pressurized air through a mask to prevent airway collapse during sleep.
While CPAP can be very effective, some patients find long-term use uncomfortable or difficult to maintain. We believe understanding how CPAP compares with other sleep apnea treatment options helps patients choose the approach that best fits their lifestyle and needs.
Lifestyle & Other Treatments
In some cases, lifestyle changes can support sleep apnea treatment and help reduce symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, adjusting sleep position, and limiting alcohol or tobacco use may improve breathing during sleep, particularly in mild cases.
These strategies are often used alongside other therapies rather than on their own.
Advanced Options (When Needed)
When conservative treatments are not enough, advanced options such as surgical airway correction or nerve stimulation may be considered. These treatments are typically reserved for more complex cases. When appropriate, dentists work closely with medical specialists to coordinate care and guide patients through the next steps.
Get Sleep Apnea Care Close to Home in Hickory, NC
Hickory Dental Care provides comprehensive sleep apnea treatment with a focus on comfort, clarity, and long-term results. Our team works closely with patients to identify the best solution for their needs.
- Expertise in dental sleep medicine and oral appliance therapy
- Personalized diagnosis and custom treatment plans
- Patient-first, supportive approach
- Convenient location near you
If you’re ready to sleep better, we’re here to help.
Real Patients, Real Relief
Patients are sharing how sleep apnea treatment has improved their energy and daily comfort. Read what real patients have to say about their experience at Hickory Dental Care.
Common Questions About Sleep Apnea
Is sleep apnea dangerous?
Yes, untreated sleep apnea can affect cardiovascular health, blood sugar regulation, and daily functioning. Repeated drops in oxygen levels place strain on the body over time. Diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce these risks.
Will insurance cover treatment?
Insurance coverage varies by plan and type of treatment. Many medical insurance plans provide coverage for sleep apnea testing and certain therapies. Our team can help review your benefits and discuss available options.
Do I need a referral for sleep testing?
Some sleep studies require a referral, while others may not, depending on your situation and insurance. The team at Hickory Dental Care will help guide you through the next steps and coordinate care if testing is needed.
How soon can I start treatment?
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment can often begin quickly. Many patients are able to start oral appliance therapy soon after evaluation. Schedule a consultation with Hickory Dental Care to take the first step toward better sleep.