13 Main Street, #7, Sparta, NJ 07871
973-729-5900
At Anna Patras Orthodontics, we believe everyone deserves restful, healthy sleep. If you often wake up tired, struggle with daytime fatigue, or have been told that you snore or stop breathing during the night, you may be experiencing sleep apnea. This common condition affects many adults in Sparta, New Jersey, and can have serious long-term health consequences—but effective, comfortable treatment is available.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when the soft tissues and muscles in the upper airway relax too much during sleep, narrowing or completely blocking airflow. When the airway becomes restricted, oxygen can’t reach the lungs or brain as it should. The vibration of these tissues causes snoring, and complete blockage results in pauses in breathing—sometimes hundreds of times per night. This type of sleep apnea is known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).
Common Symptoms and Risk Factors
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have sleep apnea:
- Excessive daytime drowsiness or fatigue
- Loud or frequent snoring (though not always present)
- Morning headaches
- Gastro-esophageal reflux (GERD)
- High blood pressure
- Type II diabetes
- Memory loss or difficulty concentrating
Other contributing factors include weight gain, hormonal changes, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, orthodontic concerns, and TMJ disorders. Left untreated, OSA can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious conditions. Because of these risks, every patient should be diagnosed through a physician-directed sleep study—either at home or in a sleep lab.
Treatment Options
The most common treatment for OSA is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine, which keeps the airway open with a steady stream of air. However, many patients find CPAP machines uncomfortable or difficult to use regularly.
For mild to moderate sleep apnea, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends oral appliance therapy as a first-line treatment option. These FDA-approved appliances are custom-made to gently move the lower jaw and tongue forward, increasing space in the throat and preventing airway collapse. They are quiet, portable, and much more comfortable than traditional CPAP devices.
At Anna Patras Orthodontics, we provide custom oral sleep appliances in Sparta, New Jersey that fit comfortably, promote easier breathing, and help you wake up feeling refreshed. If you or someone you love struggles with snoring or daytime fatigue, an oral appliance could be the key to better sleep and better health.