Sleep plays a critical role in maintaining our physical health, emotional well-being, and daily performance. Yet, millions of Americans struggle with sleep disorders—and one of the most underdiagnosed among them is sleep apnea. If you wake up feeling tired despite a full night’s rest, or if your partner complains about your snoring, you could be one of the many individuals living with undiagnosed sleep apnea.
At TMJ & Dental Sleep Solutions of New Orleans, we’re committed to helping our community understand and treat this silent yet serious condition. That’s why we offer a Free Sleep Apnea Screening to residents of New Orleans—because early detection is the first step to reclaiming quality sleep and improving your health.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to a blocked airway. When the airway collapses or becomes obstructed, the body struggles for oxygen, waking you up just enough to restart breathing—often without you even knowing it. These frequent interruptions disrupt your sleep cycle and prevent deep, restorative rest.
Common symptoms include:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime fatigue
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings or irritability
- Restless sleep or insomnia
- Witnessed pauses in breathing during sleep
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to take them seriously.
Why Early Detection Matters
Undiagnosed and untreated sleep apnea doesn’t just make you tired—it can lead to serious health complications, including:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Stroke
- Weight gain and obesity
- Depression and anxiety
- Decreased cognitive function
- Increased risk of accidents (especially while driving)
The good news? With the right diagnosis and treatment, sleep apnea is manageable—and life-changing results are possible.
What Happens During a Free Sleep Apnea Screening?
At TMJ & Dental Sleep Solutions of New Orleans, our free sleep apnea screening is designed to be:
- Simple
- Non-invasive
- Comfortable
- Educational
Here’s what to expect:
- Initial Consultation: You’ll meet with a sleep specialist who will review your medical history, sleep habits, and any symptoms you may be experiencing.
- Sleep Health Assessment: We’ll use validated questionnaires and tools to assess your risk for sleep apnea. This step helps us determine if further diagnostic testing is needed.
- Recommendations for Next Steps: If you’re at risk, we may recommend a home sleep test or refer you for a comprehensive overnight sleep study. We’ll walk you through your options and answer all your questions.
- Treatment Options Beyond CPAP: Many people avoid seeking help for sleep apnea because they fear being prescribed a bulky CPAP machine. At our clinic, we specialize in comfortable, non-invasive alternatives, such as:
- Oral Appliance Therapy: Custom-fitted devices that gently reposition your jaw to keep your airway open during sleep. They are easy to wear, quiet, and travel-friendly—making them a popular choice among patients.
- Lifestyle Guidance: In some cases, weight loss, positional therapy, or changes in sleep hygiene can make a significant difference.
Why Choose TMJ & Dental Sleep Solutions of New Orleans?
- We focus exclusively on sleep-disordered breathing and TMJ disorders
- Our team is extensively trained in dental sleep medicine
- We work closely with local physicians and sleep labs to coordinate your care
- Our approach is patient-centered, comfortable, and highly effective
- We offer custom oral appliances tailored to your unique needs
Don’t let another night go by without answers. Your health, focus, and energy all start with a good night’s sleep—and that begins with getting the right diagnosis.
TMJ & Dental Sleep Solutions of New Orleans is here to help you take the first step toward better sleep and a healthier life. Our Free Sleep Apnea Screening is available to all residents in and around New Orleans.