A good night’s sleep is essential for whole-body wellness. When breathing is disrupted during sleep, it can affect every aspect of your health—from energy levels and mood to cardiovascular health and brain function. At Cheek Dental, Dr. Kristina Chandler and Dr. Cristi Cheek provide dental solutions for sleep-disordered breathing, helping patients breathe easier, sleep deeper, and live healthier.
Sleep-disordered breathing is a broad term that includes conditions where airflow is limited during sleep. The most common forms include snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). When your airway collapses or becomes restricted at night, your body doesn’t get enough oxygen. This prevents you from reaching the deep, restorative stages of sleep your body needs to recharge.
Common symptoms include:
Loud or frequent snoring
Pauses in breathing (often noticed by a partner)
Gasping or choking during sleep
Morning headaches, dry mouth, or sore throat
Excessive daytime fatigue or difficulty concentrating
Jaw soreness or clenching
If left untreated, sleep-disordered breathing has been linked to serious health risks such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and reduced quality of life.
Many cases of sleep-disordered breathing are related to the position of the jaw and tongue during sleep. As dentists, Dr. Kristina Chandler and Dr. Cristi Cheek are uniquely trained to evaluate the airway and create solutions that improve breathing at night.
One of the most effective non-invasive options is an oral appliance called a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD).
A Mandibular Advancement Device is a small, custom-fitted appliance that is worn while you sleep. It gently repositions the lower jaw and tongue forward, preventing the airway from collapsing.
Benefits of a MAD:
Reduces or eliminates snoring
Improves oxygen flow during sleep
Comfortable, discreet, and easy to wear
Non-invasive alternative to CPAP therapy
Portable—ideal for travel
Unlike over-the-counter devices, custom appliances made at Cheek Dental are tailored to your bite using advanced technology like the iTero digital scanner. This ensures comfort, effectiveness, and long-term durability.
Our dentists take a whole-health approach to sleep-disordered breathing. Your care begins with a thorough evaluation, often including advanced imaging (such as CBCT scans) to assess your airway and bite. If needed, we collaborate with sleep physicians to ensure an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive care plan.
At Cheek Dental, your treatment is:
Personalized: Every appliance is designed to fit your unique anatomy.
Conservative: Non-invasive solutions are prioritized over surgical or high-maintenance alternatives.
Comfortable: Designed with smooth, lightweight materials for all-night wear.
Supportive: We monitor your progress and make adjustments to keep your results long-lasting.
When you breathe better at night, your body and mind function better during the day. Patients who address sleep-disordered breathing often report:
More restful, restorative sleep
Improved focus, energy, and mood
Reduced morning headaches and jaw tension
Decreased health risks linked to untreated sleep apnea
For more information about dental treatments for sleep-disordered breathing, visit the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine or the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
With a focus on whole-health and personalized dentistry, Dr. Kristina Chandler and Dr. Cristi Cheek are dedicated to helping every patient feel confident in their smile.
