Snoring might seem like just a harmless annoyance, but if that snoring is loud, consistent, or accompanied by gasping, choking, or long pauses in breathing, it could be more than a nighttime irritation. It might be a sign of sleep apnea, a serious medical condition that affects both health and quality of life. At Dr. Tatum’s office, we often see partners who have been listening to their partner’s snoring night after night, wondering if it’s normal, and finally speaking up.
If you’re that person, you’re not alone, and your concern could be the first step toward getting your loved one the help they need. Continue below to learn more.
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), occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much, blocking the airway. Each pause in breathing can last 10 seconds or more and happen dozens (or even hundreds) of times a night.
The result is poor sleep quality, reduced oxygen levels in the blood, and strain on the body, especially the heart and brain.
Common Signs of Sleep Apnea
Your partner may not realize they’re experiencing these symptoms, but you might notice:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Gasping, choking, or snorting during sleep
- Pauses in breathing while sleeping
- Restless tossing and turning
- Morning headaches
- Daytime fatigue or difficulty concentrating
- Irritability or mood changes
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
If these sound familiar, it’s time to take snoring seriously.
Why Sleep Apnea Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of a variety of serious health problems:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Weight gain and obesity
- Depression and anxiety
- Memory issues and cognitive decline
Not to mention, your partner probably isn’t the only one suffering—sleep apnea can also cause relationship strain due to disrupted sleep and frustration.
When to Talk to a Professional
If your partner snores regularly and you’re noticing other warning signs, such as excessive daytime sleepiness or mood changes, encourage them to discuss it with their doctor at their next medical or dental appointment. Many people don’t realize that dentists, like Dr. Tatum, are trained to recognize symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing.
Through a combination of health history, discussion, and sometimes imaging, we can help guide patients toward a diagnosis and an effective treatment option for snoring and sleep apnea.
How a Dentist Can Help
You may be surprised to learn that dentists often play a significant role in treating sleep apnea. While CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines are a standard first-line treatment, many people find them bulky and uncomfortable to use. That’s where we come in.
At Tatum Dentistry, we offer custom oral appliances designed to gently reposition the lower jaw and maintain an open airway during sleep. These devices are small, quiet, and often much easier to use consistently than a CPAP machine.
Benefits of oral appliance therapy include:
- Comfortable, custom fit
- No mask, hose, or noise
- Easy to travel with
- Non-invasive and non-surgical
- Proven effectiveness for mild to moderate OSA
Our comprehensive dental care services are designed to work with you to determine whether a dental sleep appliance is a suitable option.
What You Can Do Today
If you’re reading this and thinking, “This sounds just like my partner,” here are a few steps you can take:
- Start the conversation: Bring it up gently and from a place of concern. Many people are unaware that they snore.
- Keep a sleep journal: Track what you observe, such as snoring patterns, gasping, restlessness, and other notable symptoms. This can help during a dentist’s office consultation.
- Schedule an appointment: Whether with a sleep specialist or right here at Tatum Dentistry, the critical part is getting the process started.
- Support their journey: Treatment can be life-changing, and your encouragement makes all the difference.
Reach Out to a Charleston Dentist at Tatum Dentistry to Learn More
Snoring may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can be a warning sign of a more significant issue. If your partner’s snoring is affecting your sleep or their health, it’s worth exploring the issue further. At Tatum Dentistry, our comprehensive dental services are designed to help you sleep better and promote a healthy smile and life.
If you have questions about sleep apnea or would like to learn more about oral appliance therapy, please don’t hesitate to reach out. From cosmetic dentistry, such as dental implants, to routine cleaning and beyond, we cover all your Charleston, SC, oral health and dental care needs.
