What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that causes repeated interruptions in breathing throughout the night. These pauses can last several seconds and occur hundreds of times per night, depriving the brain and body of oxygen.
There are three main types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – The most common type, caused by the airway collapsing or becoming blocked during sleep.
- Central Sleep Apnea – Caused by the brain failing to signal the muscles to breathe properly.
- Complex Sleep Apnea – A combination of both obstructive and central apnea.
At Dental Arts of Hastings-on-Hudson, we focus on treating obstructive sleep apnea using advanced dental devices designed to keep your airway open during sleep.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed because its symptoms occur while you’re asleep. However, common warning signs include:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating or memory loss
- Mood changes or irritability
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
- Insomnia or restless sleep
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to consider a sleep apnea evaluation in Hastings-on-Hudson.
The Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Ignoring sleep apnea can lead to serious health consequences. Repeated drops in oxygen levels strain your heart, lungs, and brain, increasing the risk of:
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Depression and anxiety
- Poor work or school performance
- Drowsy driving accidents
Getting effective treatment can protect both your long-term health and your daily quality of life.
How Sleep Apnea Is Diagnosed
The first step is determining whether you have sleep apnea. Diagnosis typically involves:
- Medical Evaluation – Your doctor or sleep specialist may ask about your sleep patterns, symptoms, and medical history.
- Sleep Study (Polysomnography) – An overnight test, either at home or in a sleep lab, that monitors breathing, heart rate, oxygen levels, and brain activity.
- Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) – The number of breathing interruptions per hour is used to classify the severity of your sleep apnea (mild, moderate, or severe).
Once you’ve been officially diagnosed with OSA, your sleep specialist may refer you to a qualified dentist—like those at Dental Arts of Hastings-on-Hudson—for treatment using an oral appliance.
Oral Appliance Therapy: A Comfortable Alternative to CPAP
Many patients are prescribed CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) as the standard treatment for sleep apnea. But while effective, CPAP machines can be loud, bulky, and uncomfortable—leading many patients to stop using them altogether.
That’s where oral appliance therapy comes in.
At Dental Arts of Hastings-on-Hudson, we offer custom-made oral appliances that:
- Gently reposition the jaw and tongue
- Prevent the airway from collapsing during sleep
- Are small, silent, and easy to travel with
- Are custom-fitted for comfort and effectiveness
These FDA-approved devices are a great option for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who are CPAP-intolerant.
What to Expect: The Treatment Process
Step 1: Consultation
We’ll review your sleep study, discuss your symptoms, and determine if you’re a good candidate for oral appliance therapy.
Step 2: Digital Impressions
Using advanced imaging, we’ll take a digital scan of your mouth to design your custom-fit sleep appliance.
Step 3: Fitting & Adjustment
Once your device is ready, we’ll ensure a perfect fit and make minor adjustments for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Step 4: Follow-Up & Monitoring
We’ll schedule regular check-ins to ensure your symptoms are improving and make any necessary changes to your treatment plan.
We work closely with your sleep physician to coordinate care and track your progress using follow-up sleep studies when needed.
Is Oral Appliance Therapy Covered by Insurance?
Yes! In many cases, oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea is covered by medical insurance, not dental insurance. Our knowledgeable team will work with your provider to verify coverage and maximize your benefits.
We also offer flexible payment plans to make treatment accessible for all of our patients in the Hastings-on-Hudson area.
Why Choose Dental Arts of Hastings-on-Hudson?
- Experienced, compassionate care in a welcoming environment
- Advanced training in dental sleep medicine
- State-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnosis and custom appliances
- Convenient location in Hastings-on-Hudson, NY
- Close collaboration with local sleep physicians
- Focus on patient comfort and long-term results
Our team is committed to helping you breathe easier, sleep better, and live healthier—starting with a simple consultation.
Reclaim Restful Sleep—Book Your Sleep Apnea Consultation Today
If you’re tired of feeling tired, don’t wait. Let the team at Dental Arts of Hastings-on-Hudson help you find relief from sleep apnea with a comfortable, custom-fit oral appliance.
We’re here to support your journey toward better sleep and better health, right here in Hastings-on-Hudson, NY.
Call us today or request an appointment online to schedule your sleep apnea consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is snoring always a sign of sleep apnea?
Not always, but loud, frequent snoring can be a strong indicator—especially if it’s paired with gasping, pauses in breathing, or daytime fatigue.
How long does it take to get used to an oral appliance?
Most patients adjust within a few days. Our team will provide guidance to help you get comfortable quickly.
Can children have sleep apnea?
Yes, sleep apnea can affect children and may be linked to behavioral issues, growth problems, or learning difficulties. Pediatric evaluation is recommended.
Do I need a referral to get an oral appliance?
Not always. If you’ve already had a sleep study, we can begin treatment right away. If not, we can help coordinate with your physician.
