Waking up exhausted, feeling groggy throughout the day, or dealing with frequent headaches isn’t just frustrating. It can start to affect your daily life. If sleep never feels refreshing, there may be something more going on. Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, and many people don’t realize orthodontic treatment can sometimes help.
If you’ve been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea or suspect you have it, you might be wondering what your options are beyond a CPAP machine. Orthodontics could be part of the solution, and Dr. Varallo at Varallo Orthodontics can help you find the right solution for you at our Arlington or Burlington location.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea disrupts breathing during sleep, often causing loud snoring, gasping, or frequent wake-ups. These pauses in breathing can last seconds or even a minute, preventing the deep, restorative sleep your body needs. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This happens when the muscles in the back of your throat relax too much, reducing or blocking airflow.
Signs You Might Have Sleep Apnea
- Loud, persistent snoring
- Waking up gasping for air
- Dry mouth or sore throat in the morning
- Morning headaches
- Feeling exhausted despite a full night of sleep
- Trouble focusing during the day
Orthodontic Treatment for Better Airway Health
Beyond oral appliances, orthodontic treatment may help improve breathing by correcting structural issues that contribute to airway obstruction.
Early Intervention for Children
Early orthodontic treatment at Varallo Orthodontics can create more space in the airway in children before problems get worse. Palatal expansion widens the upper jaw, increasing airflow and reducing the risk of sleep apnea later in life. A narrow palate or crowded teeth can contribute to airway blockages, so correcting these issues early may make a significant difference.
Jaw Alignment for Adults
Adults with misaligned jaws may experience airway obstruction because of the position of their teeth and bite. In some cases, orthodontic treatments like braces or Invisalign can improve airflow by aligning the jaw. For severe cases, jaw surgery might be an option to create more room in the airway.
Risks of Not Getting Sleep Apnea Under Control
Ignoring sleep apnea can lead to serious health consequences beyond just feeling tired. Since the condition disrupts oxygen flow throughout the night, untreated sleep apnea can contribute to a range of health issues, including:
- High Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Repeated drops in oxygen levels put stress on your cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of hypertension, heart attacks, and irregular heart rhythms.
- Daytime Fatigue and Accidents: Poor sleep quality can make it harder to focus, increasing the chances of work-related mistakes and drowsy driving accidents.
- Type 2 Diabetes Risk: Sleep apnea has been linked to insulin resistance, making it a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes.
- Cognitive Decline: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and an increased risk of dementia have all been associated with long-term sleep apnea.
- Mental Health Struggles: Poor sleep can contribute to mood disorders like depression and anxiety, making it harder to manage daily stress.
Because sleep apnea affects your whole-body health, finding an effective treatment is essential. A sleep specialist and Dr. Varallo can work together to find the right option for you.
Can Orthodontic Treatments Like Braces or Invisalign Help?
Metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign can help correct bite issues that may contribute to sleep apnea. Moving teeth into better alignment can improve jaw positioning, reducing airway obstruction. While these treatments won’t cure sleep apnea on their own, they can be part of a broader plan to improve breathing and sleep quality.
Find Out if Orthodontic Treatment Can Help
Struggling with sleep apnea can feel exhausting, but the right treatment can make a difference. Orthodontic solutions aren’t always the first option people think of, yet they can improve airflow and help you get the restful sleep you need.
Dr. Varallo and our team at Varallo Orthodontics in Arlington and Burlington can assess whether an oral appliance or orthodontic treatment is a good fit for you. A free consultation is a simple step that could lead to better breathing, better sleep, and better overall health. Reach out today to learn more about your options.