Sleep apnea is a serious sleep-related breathing disorder that affects both children and adults. The term comes from the Greek meaning “without breath,” which accurately describes what happens during sleep—breathing repeatedly pauses for 10 seconds or longer. These interruptions prevent deep, restorative sleep and place ongoing stress on the body.
At Smile Arc Orthodontics, we believe understanding sleep apnea is an important step toward protecting long-term health and overall well-being.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when airflow becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep. This blockage usually happens in the back of the throat when the muscles relax, allowing the tongue and lower jaw to fall backward and restrict the airway.
These breathing disruptions, called apneas (complete pauses) and hypopneas (shallow breathing), can last from 10 seconds to over a minute and may occur dozens or even hundreds of times each night. Although the sleeper may not fully wake up, the brain is repeatedly pulled out of deep sleep.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Sleep apnea symptoms can vary between adults and children, but chronic fatigue is a common thread. Many people don’t realize they have sleep apnea until someone else notices changes in their breathing during sleep.
Common symptoms include:
- Loud, persistent snoring
- Gasping, choking, or coughing at night
- Waking with a racing heartbeat
- Morning headaches
- Daytime sleepiness or falling asleep unexpectedly
- Trouble with focus, memory, or concentration
- Mood changes such as irritability
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Acid reflux in adults
- ADHD-like symptoms in children
- Nighttime bed-wetting in children
Why Untreated Sleep Apnea Is a Serious Concern
When sleep apnea goes untreated, oxygen levels in the blood drop repeatedly throughout the night. This triggers stress responses that raise blood pressure and force the heart to work harder.
Over time, untreated sleep apnea has been linked to:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease and stroke
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Increased risk of accidents
- Reduced immune function
- Serious, life-threatening health complications
What Happens During a Sleep Apnea Episode?
As oxygen levels fall, the brain sends emergency signals to restart breathing. This can cause sudden body movements and often ends with a loud snort or gasp. Once breathing resumes, the muscles relax again, and the cycle repeats. This constant disruption prevents the body from fully resting, even after a full night in bed.
Sleep Apnea in Children and Adults
Children with sleep apnea may not always appear tired. Instead, symptoms can include behavioral challenges, difficulty focusing, mouth breathing, or bed-wetting. Early identification is vital, as untreated sleep issues can affect growth, learning, and development.
Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep
Sleep apnea is more than a sleep issue; it’s a whole-body health concern. The good news is that early evaluation and proper treatment can significantly improve sleep quality, energy levels, and overall health.
If you or your child experiences signs of sleep apnea, schedule a consultation with Smile Arc Orthodontics. We’re here to help you breathe easier, sleep better, and feel healthier every day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sleep apnea can affect far more than just your sleep, it impacts daily energy, focus, and long-term health. Below are answers to common questions families in San Diego ask when learning more about sleep apnea and how orthodontic care may help.
How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
Sleep apnea is typically diagnosed through a sleep study, which may be done at home or in a sleep lab. An orthodontic evaluation can help identify airway or jaw-related factors that may contribute to breathing issues.
Can orthodontic treatment help with sleep apnea?
In some cases, yes. Orthodontic treatment may help improve airway space by guiding jaw development or correcting narrow arches, especially in growing children and teens.
What’s the difference between sleep apnea in children and adults?
Adults often experience excessive daytime sleepiness, while children may show behavioral changes, attention issues, or mouth breathing. Both benefit from early identification and proper care.
Can sleep apnea affect dental or facial development?
Yes. Chronic mouth breathing and airway obstruction can influence jaw growth, facial structure, and tooth alignment, particularly in children.
Will insurance cover sleep apnea-related treatment?
Coverage varies depending on diagnosis and treatment type. Our team can help review your insurance benefits and guide you through available options.
