If you or a loved one experiences persistent snoring or struggles with sleep apnea, it could be impacting your overall health and well-being. Loud snoring, frequent waking, and daytime fatigue are common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—a condition that can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and other serious health concerns.
At Smile by Design, our Mountain view dentist—Dr. Donian Shen—offers a comfortable, non-invasive solution to improve sleep: custom ProSomnus® oral appliances. These innovative devices provide an effective alternative to CPAP therapy for many patients, helping to restore healthy breathing and better sleep.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night due to airway obstruction. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much, causing the airway to narrow or collapse. This leads to oxygen deprivation, forcing the brain to wake the body up to restore breathing—sometimes hundreds of times per night.
Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to:
- Chronic fatigue and excessive daytime sleepiness
- High blood pressure and heart disease
- Increased risk of stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Mood disorders like anxiety and depression
What Are the Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Many people with sleep apnea are unaware they have it, as symptoms often occur during sleep. Some of the most common signs include:
- Loud, persistent snoring
- Choking, gasping, or snorting during sleep
- Pauses in breathing
- Waking up feeling unrefreshed
- Excessive daytime drowsiness
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
- Morning headaches
- Irritability or mood changes
If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, it may be time to seek professional evaluation and treatment. A formal sleep apnea diagnosis typically requires a sleep study or a screening with a take-home device, but Dr. Shen is happy to consult with you about your symptoms and make recommendations regarding next steps.
What Treatment Options Are Available for Snoring and Sleep Apnea?
There are several treatment options available for managing OSA, depending on the severity of the condition:
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) – A CPAP machine uses a mask and air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep. While effective, many patients find it uncomfortable and difficult to tolerate.
- Oral Appliance Therapy (ProSomnus® Devices) – A custom-fitted oral appliance gently repositions the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open, preventing obstruction. It is a comfortable, non-invasive alternative to CPAP for many patients.
- Lifestyle Modifications – Losing weight, avoiding alcohol before bed, and adjusting sleep positions may help reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
- Surgical Options – In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to remove excess tissue or reposition the jaw to improve airflow.
For many patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy is a highly effective and more comfortable solution compared to CPAP. Dr. Shen specializes in providing custom ProSomnus® oral appliances to help patients sleep soundly without the discomfort of bulky machines or masks.
What Treatment Options Are Available for Snoring and Sleep Apnea?
Many people are surprised to learn that a dentist can help treat sleep apnea. When OSA occurs, the soft tissues in the throat collapse during sleep, restricting airflow and causing oxygen levels to drop. Dr. Shen offers custom ProSomnus® oral appliances—similar to a mouthguard—to gently reposition the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open at night, reducing snoring and sleep disruptions.
What Are the Benefits of ProSomnus® Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea and Snoring?
- Comfortable & custom-fit – Designed specifically for your bite and airway
- Non-invasive – No masks, hoses, or machines required
- Portable & travel-friendly – Convenient for use at home or on the go
- Quiet & easy to wear – Unlike CPAP, there’s no noise or discomfort
- Clinically proven – Effective for reducing snoring and treating mild to moderate OSA
What Does Snoring and Sleep Apnea Treatment Involve?
Dr. Shen takes a comprehensive approach to treating sleep apnea and snoring. During your consultation, she will evaluate your symptoms and may recommend a sleep study for an accurate diagnosis. If an oral appliance is right for you, a custom ProSomnus® device will be created to ensure optimal fit and effectiveness. Regular follow-ups help fine-tune your treatment for long-term success.
Schedule a Consultation
Snoring and sleep apnea don’t have to control your life. If you’re looking for a comfortable, effective alternative to CPAP, Dr. Donian Shen can help. Contact our Mountain View office today to schedule your consultation and start sleeping better.