Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for your overall health and well-being. If you often wake up tired, snore loudly, or feel exhausted during the day, you might be experiencing sleep apnea, a common but serious condition that affects millions of Americans. At Premier Orthodontics & Dental Specialists, Dr. Corina Radu offers advanced orthodontic and surgical solutions that improve breathing, restore restful sleep, and enhance facial harmony.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, often because the airway becomes blocked. Each pause in breathing can last for several seconds, interrupting deep sleep and leaving you tired and unfocused the next day.
There are three main types of sleep apnea:
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Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Caused by a physical blockage in the airway.
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Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Occurs when the brain fails to signal breathing muscles properly.
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Complex Sleep Apnea: A combination of both OSA and CSA.
Common Signs and Symptoms
If you or a loved one experience the following, you may have sleep apnea:
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Loud snoring or choking during sleep
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Gasping for air at night
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Morning headaches or dry mouth
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Excessive daytime sleepiness or difficulty concentrating
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Mood changes or irritability
Sleep apnea is more than just snoring; it can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and chronic fatigue if left untreated.
Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in males than females, and more common in older adults (40+) than younger adults and children. However, anyone, regardless of gender or age, can suffer from sleep apnea.
Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, drinking, use of sedatives or tranquilizers, and family history. Central sleep apnea strikes most often in people with heart disorders, neuromuscular disorders, strokes, or brain tumors.
Is Sleep Apnea Dangerous?
Sleep apnea is a serious medical problem. If left untreated, it can lead to high blood pressure and increased risk of heart failure and stroke. The ongoing state of fatigue caused by sleep apnea can lead to problems at work or school and danger when driving or operating heavy machinery.
Sleep apnea can also cause complications with medication or surgery; sedation by anesthesia can be risky, as can lying flat in bed after an operation. If you know or suspect you suffer from sleep apnea, let your family doctor know before you take prescribed medication or undergo surgery.
Advanced Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
Airway Orthodontics
At Premier Orthodontics & Dental Specialists, we go beyond traditional orthodontics with a specialized focus on airway orthodontics, a treatment approach that enhances breathing by guiding proper jaw and facial development.
Airway orthodontics can:
Expand and stabilize the airway
Improve airflow and reduce snoring
Support natural jaw alignment
Promote better oxygen intake during sleep
This non-invasive method benefits both children and adults, addressing the root causes of airway restriction rather than just the symptoms. Over time, it can significantly improve sleep quality and overall health.
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Lifestyle and Orthodontic Support
For mild to moderate cases, simple lifestyle changes can help improve breathing during sleep:
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
Avoid alcohol or sedatives before bed
Sleep on your side instead of your back
Maintain a healthy weight through exercise
When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, airway orthodontics can provide lasting improvement by addressing the structural causes of restricted airflow.
Why Choose Premier Orthodontics for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Patients across Downers Grove and Elmhurst choose Premier Orthodontics for our:
Expertise in airway-focused orthodontics and sleep-related conditions
Advanced 3D imaging and digital scanning technology
Collaboration with medical sleep specialists
Customized treatment plans for adults and children
Compassionate, patient-centered care
Real Smiles, Real Stories
FAQ
What Are the Benefits of Airway Orthodontics?
Airway orthodontics doesn’t just straighten teeth it provides a range of health and functional benefits, including:
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Opening the airway for easier breathing
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Reducing or eliminating snoring
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Supporting better oxygen flow during sleep
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Improving posture and jaw alignment
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Enhancing long-term oral and overall health
Is Airway Orthodontic Treatment Painful?
Most patients experience only mild pressure or temporary soreness as their teeth and jaws adjust. Any discomfort is short-lived and can be easily managed with over-the-counter medication.
How Soon Will I Notice Results from Treatment?
Many patients start to experience better breathing and improved sleep within the first few months. Full results develop gradually as jaw alignment and airway space continue to improve throughout treatment.
How Long Does Airway Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Treatment duration varies based on individual needs but typically ranges from 12 to 24 months. The process is gradual and focused on long-term health benefits.