Sleep apnea is a common but potentially serious sleep disorder that causes repeated interruptions in breathing throughout the night. These pauses can lead to loud, chronic snoring, gasping for air, poor sleep quality, and long-term health risks if left untreated.
At Hammond Pond Dental Group in Chestnut Hill, MA, we provide personalized, effective sleep apnea treatment for patients throughout Chestnut Hill, Brookline, Newton, and nearby communities. Our experienced dentists will work closely with you to identify the root cause of your symptoms and recommend treatment options tailored to your comfort, health, and lifestyle.
If you’ve been struggling with heavy snoring, fatigue, or restless nights, we’re here to help you sleep better and feel better, and we’ll always do everything we can to get you seen quickly and comfortably.
Symptoms & Causes of Sleep Apnea
While occasional snoring may not be concerning, persistent or loud snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea. Other symptoms may include:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Frequent morning headaches or dry mouth
- Irritability or mood changes
- Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
- Fatigue or lack of concentration
- Mouth breathing during sleep
- Episodes of waking up gasping or choking
There are two primary types of sleep apnea:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
The most common form, caused when the airway collapses or becomes blocked during sleep. The vibration of air passing through a narrowed airway leads to loud snoring.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
A less common type caused by the brain failing to send proper signals to the muscles responsible for breathing.
Understanding which type you have is essential for choosing the right treatment. That’s why our dentists focus on identifying your specific needs before recommending a solution.
Your Sleep Apnea Evaluation & Treatment
When you visit our Chestnut Hill office for sleep apnea concerns, our dentists will begin with a detailed consultation, reviewing your:
- Symptoms
- Medical history
- Family history
- Sleep habits
- Lifestyle factors
If further evaluation is needed, we may recommend a home sleep test or an overnight sleep study (polysomnography) to analyze your breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep cycles.
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, we will create a personalized plan to help restore restful, uninterrupted sleep.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Many patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea respond exceptionally well to custom oral devices, such as:
- Mandibular advancement devices (MADs): Gently reposition the lower jaw to keep the airway open
- Tongue-retaining devices: Prevent the tongue from slipping backward during sleep
These devices are comfortable, portable, non-invasive, and often preferred over CPAP machines for suitable candidates.
Lifestyle & Supportive Therapies
Your sleep apnea dentist in Chestnut Hill and Brookline, MA may also recommend:
- Weight management
- Positional therapy
- Reducing alcohol or sedative use before bed
- Improving sleep hygiene
- Treating nasal congestion
Start Sleeping Better, Naturally & Comfortably
If sleep apnea is interrupting your rest, affecting your productivity, or impacting your health, the team at Hammond Pond Dental Group is here to help. Our personalized, compassionate approach can help you breathe easier, sleep soundly, and wake up feeling refreshed.
Contact us today to learn more about sleep apnea treatment in Chestnut Hill and Brookline, MA, and schedule your evaluation.
