Sleep Apnea Treatment in Downtown Los Angeles
Do you snore loudly, wake up tired, or struggle to stay alert during the day? You might be one of the millions of Americans living with sleep apnea—a serious but treatable condition that disrupts breathing during sleep and can put your health at risk.
At Smile LA Downtown Modern Dentistry, we offer expert screening and treatment solutions for sleep apnea, helping patients breathe easier, sleep better, and protect their long-term health.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. These pauses in breathing can last from a few seconds to over a minute and may occur hundreds of times during sleep. If left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and daytime fatigue that impacts quality of life.
In some cases, people with severe sleep apnea stop breathing for up to 75% of the night—straining the heart and reducing oxygen flow to the brain and body.
Types of Sleep Apnea We Treat
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
This is the most common type and occurs when soft tissues in the throat, tongue, or soft palate relax during sleep, partially or fully blocking the airway. Snoring is a classic symptom.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
Less common than OSA, this condition occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles responsible for breathing. It’s typically associated with neurological or cardiovascular issues.
Mixed Sleep Apnea
A combination of both obstructive and central forms. Many patients initially diagnosed with OSA may actually have mixed sleep apnea, especially if their breathing patterns fluctuate during sleep.
What Causes Sleep Apnea?
Several factors can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea, including:
Obesity or weight gain
A receding chin or small jaw
Deviated nasal septum or narrowed airway
Poor teeth alignment or jaw position
Family history of sleep disorders
Age over 60
Use of alcohol or sedatives before bed
These conditions can cause the airway to collapse or narrow during sleep, leading to disrupted breathing and poor oxygen flow.
Common Signs and Symptoms
You may have sleep apnea if you experience:
Loud, chronic snoring
Gasping or choking during sleep
Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
Morning headaches
Daytime fatigue or drowsiness
Difficulty concentrating or memory loss
Insomnia or frequent nighttime awakenings
Low libido or erectile dysfunction
Many people don’t realize they have sleep apnea until a partner notices their irregular breathing. Early diagnosis is key to protecting your health and improving your sleep quality.
How We Treat Sleep Apnea at Smile LA
At Smile LA Downtown Modern Dentistry, we take a comprehensive approach to sleep apnea treatment. After an in-depth consultation and screening process, we’ll recommend the best option based on the cause and severity of your condition.
Treatment options may include:
Custom night guards or oral appliances
These reposition your jaw or tongue to keep your airway open during sleep. Ideal for mild to moderate cases.Addressing bite or jaw misalignment
Correcting dental alignment or treating TMJ issues can resolve the root cause of obstructed airways.Referral for sleep studies or CPAP therapy
For complex or severe cases, we’ll coordinate with sleep specialists to ensure you receive proper diagnostic testing and care.
Breathe Easier and Sleep Better—Starting Tonight
Sleep apnea doesn’t just impact your rest—it affects your heart, brain, and overall well-being. Our experienced dental team is here to help you reclaim restful nights and energized days with safe, personalized care.
📞 Call Smile LA Downtown Modern Dentistry at (213) 336-8478 or schedule your consultation online to get started with sleep apnea treatment in Downtown Los Angeles.
