Feeling tired, irritable, or foggy during the day? Do you or your partner snore loudly at night? While many people dismiss these issues as “just part of life,” they can be signs of a serious sleep disorder known as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
At Dream Smiles Dental in Bolton, we help patients spot the warning signs and provide effective, dentist-led treatment to improve sleep and overall health. Here’s what you need to know about recognising sleep apnoea.
What Is Sleep Apnoea?
Sleep apnoea happens when the airway repeatedly collapses or becomes blocked during sleep. This reduces or even stops airflow, leading to repeated pauses in breathing. Each time this happens, your body briefly wakes up to restart breathing — often without you realising.
Over time, these constant interruptions prevent you from getting restorative sleep and place extra strain on your body.
Key Signs of Sleep Apnoea
Not everyone who snores has sleep apnoea, but loud, persistent snoring is one of the main red flags. Other common signs include:
Gasping, choking, or snorting during sleep
Waking up feeling unrefreshed, no matter how many hours you sleep
Daytime sleepiness – struggling to stay awake at work or while driving
Morning headaches – caused by low oxygen levels overnight
Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
Mood changes – irritability, anxiety, or even depression
Dry mouth or sore throat on waking
If your partner notices you stop breathing during sleep, this is a particularly strong indicator of sleep apnoea.
Why Sleep Apnoea Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Left untreated, sleep apnoea doesn’t just make you tired — it can have serious health consequences, including:
Increased risk of high blood pressure
Greater likelihood of stroke or heart attack
Type 2 diabetes complications
Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
Reduced life expectancy
Beyond the health risks, sleep apnoea also affects relationships. Many partners struggle with disturbed nights, and the frustration caused by loud snoring can add stress at home.
Dentist-Led Sleep Apnoea Treatment in Bolton
The good news? Effective treatment is available, and it doesn’t always involve hospital machines or bulky CPAP devices. At Dream Smiles Dental, we provide custom-made oral appliances that gently reposition your jaw while you sleep, keeping your airway open.
We offer two leading devices:
Sleepwell (£785) – the UK’s most prescribed appliance, adjustable and affordable.
Panthera (£1,100) – a premium, slimline device made with advanced 3D printing for maximum comfort.
Both are fitted by Dr Heba, ensuring a safe, personalised approach to your care.
Take the First Step – The Sleep Quiz
If you’re unsure whether your snoring or tiredness could be sleep apnoea, start small. Our quick 1-minute Sleep Quiz helps identify if you may be at risk. It’s a simple, discreet way to take the first step toward better health.
Don’t Ignore the Signs — Get Help Today
If the symptoms above sound familiar, it’s time to act. Treating sleep apnoea could improve your energy, mood, and long-term health — as well as give your partner the peaceful sleep they deserve.
📍 Dream Smiles Dental, Bolton
📞 Call us today on 01204 964678 to book your sleep apnoea consultation.
Better nights mean better days. Don’t ignore the signs — let us help you breathe easier and wake up refreshed.