Dangers of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep-related breathing disorder that affects millions of people, yet many remain undiagnosed. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the soft tissues in the throat relax excessively during sleep, causing repeated airway blockages. These pauses in breathing, which can last several seconds and occur hundreds of times per night, lead to dangerous oxygen level drops and frequent awakenings—even if the person doesn’t remember them.
For those suffering from mild to moderate sleep apnea, the consequences extend far beyond just feeling tired. Left untreated, sleep apnea can significantly impact cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and overall well-being. Fortunately, effective CPAP alternatives exist, such as custom-fit oral appliances, which offer a comfortable and effective solution for people struggling with CPAP intolerance.
Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Ignoring sleep apnea symptoms can lead to severe health consequences. People with untreated OSA are at increased risk for:
- High Blood Pressure – Frequent drops in oxygen levels force the heart to work harder, raising blood pressure and straining the cardiovascular system.
- Heart Disease – Sleep apnea contributes to irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), heart failure, and heart attacks.
- Stroke – Reduced oxygen flow to the brain increases the likelihood of strokes and neurological complications.
- Type 2 Diabetes – Studies show a strong link between sleep apnea and insulin resistance, making diabetes management more difficult.
- Asthma and Respiratory Conditions – Poor nighttime oxygenation worsens asthma and other breathing disorders.
- Sexual Dysfunction – Decreased oxygen intake and poor sleep quality contribute to low libido and erectile dysfunction.
- Depression and Mood Disorders – Poor sleep affects emotional regulation, leading to anxiety, depression, and irritability.
- Shortened Lifespan – Research indicates that people with untreated sleep apnea face a higher risk of early death.
Additionally, drowsy driving caused by sleep apnea increases the likelihood of car accidents, making it a public safety risk.
CPAP vs. Oral Appliance Therapy: A More Comfortable Alternative
For years, the CPAP machine (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) was considered the gold standard for treating sleep apnea. However, many people find CPAP therapy difficult to tolerate due to:
- Mask discomfort and tight headgear
- Machine noise disrupting sleep
- Bulky equipment making travel difficult
- Skin irritation and dry mouth
- Feelings of claustrophobia
If you’ve experienced CPAP intolerance, you’re not alone. Many people with sleep apnea struggle to comply with CPAP therapy, which is why oral appliance therapy (OAT) has emerged as an effective, FDA-approved alternative for treating mild to moderate sleep apnea.
“I can’t tolerate a cpap and Advanced Dental is a terrific solution. I have been a patient here for over 20 years. Always helpful and friendly. I have referred many of my family and friends.”
– C. WEIGHT
“Having struggled with sleep apnea for years, I finally decided to do something about it… ADSTC was awesome to work with and I highly recommend you reach out to them to help with alternatives to C-PAP.”
– K. BROWN
“I would highly recommend this office if you are having a lot of issues with your sleep patterns. Thank you to the staff at Advanced Sleep.”
– S. KLING
What Is Oral Appliance Therapy?
Oral appliance therapy uses a custom-fit dental sleep device to gently reposition the jaw, preventing the collapse of soft tissues that block the airway. This treatment is provided by a sleep apnea dentist and offers a comfortable, non-invasive solution to manage OSA.
Benefits of Oral Sleep Appliances
- Custom-fit for comfort – Tailored to your mouth for a snug, secure fit.
- Quiet and portable – No loud machines or bulky tubes.
- Easy to use – Simply wear it at night—no complicated settings.
- Non-invasive – Unlike surgery, there’s no downtime or recovery.
- Ideal for CPAP intolerance – Perfect for those who struggle with CPAP compliance.
How We Diagnose and Treat Sleep Apnea in Omaha
At Omaha’s Advanced Dental Sleep Treatment Center, we provide custom oral appliances for treating sleep apnea. Our experienced sleep apnea dentists have helped thousands of patients regain restful, healthy sleep without the need for CPAP therapy.
Step 1: Comprehensive Sleep Evaluation
Your treatment begins with a thorough consultation to discuss symptoms and risk factors. If necessary, we may recommend a home sleep study or work with a physician to confirm an obstructive sleep apnea diagnosis.
Step 2: Custom Oral Appliance Fitting
Once diagnosed, we take precise digital impressions of your mouth to craft a custom-fit sleep apnea appliance designed for maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Step 3: Follow-Up and Adjustments
After receiving your oral sleep appliance, we conduct regular follow-ups to ensure the best fit and ongoing symptom improvement.
Why Choose a Sleep Apnea Dentist in Omaha?
Choosing a dental sleep expert instead of a general dentist is crucial for successful sleep apnea treatment. Our dentists are members of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) and have extensive experience in dental sleep medicine, ensuring you receive the highest level of care.
We focus exclusively on treating sleep apnea and snoring using the latest advancements in oral appliance therapy. Unlike general medical practices that may push CPAP as the default solution, we provide a patient-centered approach that prioritizes your comfort, lifestyle, and long-term health.
Book an Appointment for Oral Sleep Appliance Therapy in Omaha
If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea or experience symptoms such as loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or restless sleep, exploring treatment options beyond CPAP therapy can significantly improve your health and quality of life. At Omaha’s Advanced Dental Sleep Treatment Center, Dr. Melissa Sheets is an expert in oral appliance therapy, offering a comfortable and effective alternative for managing sleep apnea.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, call (402) 493-4175 and a member of our team will be in touch to assist you.
