Your first Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA consultation at a dental office is a conversation and an exam, not a test you can pass or fail. You talk through your symptoms and sleep history, the dentist examines your mouth, jaw, and airway, and together you decide on next steps. Those next steps may include a referral for a sleep study, because a dentist can screen for OSA and treat it with an oral appliance, but the diagnosis itself comes from a physician after a sleep study.

At Newport Beach Dental Center, these consultations are led by Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and a Qualified Dentist through the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Our Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA treatment page covers the treatment options we offer and what the broader care process looks like. Below, we focus on the visit itself: how to prepare, what happens in the chair, and what comes after you leave.

Why So Many Sleep Apnea Cases Go Undiagnosed

Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in adult health. A CDC research study on sleep disorder symptoms among U.S. adults found that about 4 in 10 adults surveyed reported snoring, and roughly three in four reported at least one sleep disorder symptom. Yet most people do not connect these symptoms to a diagnosable condition requiring treatment. Many normalize daytime fatigue, morning headaches, or restless sleep, attributing them to stress, aging, or lifestyle rather than a sleep-related breathing disorder.

That gap between symptoms and diagnosis is exactly why the first consultation matters. It is not just about confirming a suspicion; it is about getting a clear picture of what is happening and putting a plan in place. If you are still deciding whether your symptoms are worth a visit, our post on the risks of ignoring sleep apnea symptoms explains why they deserve attention.

How to Prepare for Your Consultation

A little preparation helps you get far more out of the appointment. The information below gives Dr. Sharbash a fuller picture of your sleep and helps her decide which next step makes sense for you.

You do not need to have all of this in hand to book a visit. If you have never had a sleep study, that is completely fine, and figuring out whether you need one is part of what the consultation is for.

What Happens at a Sleep Apnea/OSA Consultation?

A first Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA consultation at Newport Beach Dental Center is a conversation as much as it is a clinical evaluation. The visit generally moves through four parts.

The Conversation

We want to understand your symptoms, your sleep history, and how you have been feeling. We will ask about snoring frequency, whether you wake gasping or unrefreshed, how sleepy you feel during the day, and whether any existing health conditions may be connected to disrupted sleep. This is also your chance to tell us what you want out of treatment, whether that is quieter nights for your household, more energy during the day, or an alternative to a CPAP machine you have not been able to use.

The Exam

From there, Dr. Sharbash conducts an oral and airway examination to evaluate anatomical factors that commonly contribute to Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA, such as the size and positioning of the jaw, tongue, and soft palate. Because an oral appliance rests on your teeth, she also looks at the health of your teeth, gums, and jaw joints to confirm they can support one comfortably. In some cases we use three-dimensional imaging to see the airway more clearly. For a closer look at the specific oral signs dentists watch for, our guide on how to get diagnosed for Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA walks through them one by one.

The Role of a Sleep Study

Dentists do not diagnose Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA. Diagnosis requires a formal sleep study, ordered and interpreted by a physician, and that physician confirms whether OSA is present and how severe it is. What we do at the consultation is assess risk, identify signs that warrant a referral, and work collaboratively with the medical team once a diagnosis is confirmed. According to the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, when a physician determines that oral appliance therapy is appropriate, they write a prescription and refer the patient to a qualified dentist who makes and manages the custom device.

If you have already completed a sleep study and received a diagnosis, bring that documentation to your consultation. It allows Dr. Sharbash to move directly into evaluating which treatment approach is most appropriate for your case and begin planning accordingly. If you have not yet had a sleep study and your evaluation suggests significant risk, we will walk you through the next steps for getting one, which may be an at-home test or an in-lab evaluation depending on what your physician recommends.

What Happens After Your First Visit

The consultation is the starting point. For patients who move forward with oral appliance therapy, the path from there usually looks like this.

Follow-up visits are part of the process, as proper titration and monitoring are essential to achieving the best outcomes. Your physician may also recommend a follow-up sleep study once your appliance is adjusted, to confirm how well it is controlling your symptoms.

What Treatment May Look Like

For patients who are not able to tolerate CPAP therapy, or who prefer a less cumbersome alternative, oral appliance therapy is a well-supported option for mild to moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA. A custom-fit oral appliance works by gently repositioning the jaw during sleep to keep the airway open. It is compact, quiet, and does not require a machine or mask, which makes it significantly easier for many patients to use consistently. If you are weighing the two approaches, our comparison of oral appliance therapy vs. CPAP lays out how they differ.

At Newport Beach Dental Center, oral appliances are fitted, adjusted, and monitored with the same careful attention Dr. Sharbash applies to all of her general dentistry care. Because your teeth and jaw carry the appliance every night, those regular dental visits also let us watch for bite changes or jaw discomfort and adjust early. You can learn more about Dr. Sharbash’s background in dental sleep medicine on her provider page.

Questions Worth Asking at Your Consultation

Patients often leave a first visit wishing they had asked one more thing. Consider bringing a few of these questions with you:

• Do I need a sleep study first? Ask whether your symptoms warrant a referral and whether an at-home or in-lab study is more likely.
• Am I a good candidate for an oral appliance? Your teeth, gums, jaw joints, and the severity of your OSA all factor in.
• How will my insurance handle this? Oral appliances are often billed through medical insurance, so ask what we will verify for you.
• What does follow-up care involve? Ask how adjustments work and how we will coordinate with your physician.

There are no wrong questions here. The goal of the first visit is for you to leave with a clear plan and the information you need to decide on it.

Schedule Your Consultation at Newport Beach Dental Center

If you have been experiencing symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA or have recently received a diagnosis and want to explore your treatment options, a consultation with Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, is a practical and informative next step. Her combination of general dental training, a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry, and Diplomate status with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine means you receive care that addresses the full picture, not just a single piece of it.

We welcome patients from Newport Beach and the surrounding communities who are ready to take their sleep health seriously. Request an appointment online and our team will reach out to schedule your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your First Sleep Apnea Consultation

Ignoring the symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA allows repeated drops in oxygen and fragmented sleep to continue night after night, and over time that strain is linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, memory and mood problems, drowsy driving, and damage to your teeth. The four risk areas below are the most important reasons not to brush off loud snoring, gasping at night, or waking up exhausted. The encouraging part is that OSA is treatable, and the first step can begin in a dental chair.

At Newport Beach Dental Center, Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Our dental team screens for signs of OSA, coordinates with physicians who order sleep studies and make the diagnosis, and provides custom oral appliance therapy for patients who qualify. Our OSA treatment options are designed to be comfortable and tailored to each patient’s needs so that restful, restorative sleep is no longer out of reach.

Why OSA Symptoms Are So Easy to Ignore

Many people chalk the signs up to stress, a long week, or getting older. Others never hear their own snoring or breathing pauses, so the first clue comes from a bed partner. Common warning signs include the following:

Symptoms can also look different in women, who are more likely to report insomnia, headaches, or mood changes than loud snoring. Our post on sleep apnea symptoms in women that are often overlooked covers those patterns in detail.

Risk 1: Cardiovascular Complications

The connection between OSA and heart health is one of the most well-documented in sleep medicine research. When breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, oxygen levels in the blood drop and the body releases stress hormones that push blood pressure up. Over time, this repeated strain is associated with high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, heart attack, and stroke. Research published through the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute found that the reduced oxygen levels caused by interrupted breathing help explain the higher cardiovascular risk seen in people with OSA.

Cardiovascular risk does not develop overnight, which is why many people never connect their fatigue and snoring to a heart health issue. High blood pressure that is hard to control despite medication is one pattern worth mentioning to both your physician and your dentist, since untreated OSA can be part of the picture.

Risk 2: Cognitive, Mood, and Safety Effects

Sleep is not a passive process. It is the time the brain uses to consolidate memories, clear metabolic waste, and regulate emotional responses. When OSA fragments sleep night after night, the brain does not get the deep, restorative rest it needs.

Memory, Focus, and Mood

The result can show up as difficulty concentrating, memory problems, slower decision-making, irritability, and over time, an increased vulnerability to anxiety and depression. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s guidance on living with sleep apnea, untreated OSA has also been linked to dementia in older adults. Because these effects are easily mistaken for aging or everyday stress, many cases go undiagnosed for years. Learning more about what Obstructive Sleep Apnea is and how it disrupts the brain’s natural processes can help you connect the dots between symptoms and a treatable underlying cause.

Drowsy Driving and Accidents

Daytime sleepiness is not just uncomfortable. The NHLBI warns that untreated sleep apnea can make it hard to stay alert behind the wheel, raising the risk of car accidents. If you have ever caught yourself nodding off at a red light or during a meeting, treat that as a signal to get evaluated rather than something to push through with more coffee.

Risk 3: Metabolic and Hormonal Disruption

OSA does not just affect the heart and brain. It also interferes with the body’s hormonal and metabolic systems in ways that can be difficult to recognize. Disrupted sleep is associated with insulin resistance, weight gain, and difficulty managing blood sugar, and the NHLBI lists Type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome among the conditions linked to untreated sleep apnea. Poor sleep can also affect appetite-regulating hormones, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight even with diet and exercise.

This creates a cycle that can be frustrating for patients who are working hard on their metabolic health without realizing their sleep is undermining those efforts. Extra weight can narrow the airway, and a narrower airway can worsen OSA. Addressing OSA is often a meaningful piece of the puzzle for people dealing with unexplained weight changes or blood sugar irregularities.

Risk 4: Dental and Oral Health Consequences

What many patients don’t realize is that OSA has direct consequences for oral health as well. Mouth breathing, which is common in people with OSA, leads to chronic dry mouth, which in turn raises the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. OSA is also associated with bruxism, or nighttime teeth grinding, which wears down enamel, causes jaw pain, and can fracture teeth over time. These are issues Dr. Sharbash monitors closely during dental visits as part of our general dentistry care, and a custom nightguard may be part of protecting worn teeth once any airway concerns have been evaluated.

There is a reason dentists are often among the first to notice signs of OSA. Changes in the mouth, from worn teeth to a scalloped tongue to inflamed gums and jaw discomfort, can serve as early warning signals. Our post on how your dentist helps identify sleep apnea walks through what we look for during an exam.

Other Health Problems Linked to Untreated OSA

Beyond the four major risk areas, the NHLBI also connects untreated sleep apnea to pregnancy complications, gastroesophageal reflux, chronic kidney disease, certain eye conditions, and worsening asthma. It also advises telling your providers about sleep apnea before any surgery that involves sedation, since extra steps may be needed to keep your airway open. None of these risks mean OSA will cause them in every person, but together they show why a condition that looks like “just snoring” deserves real attention.

What to Do If You Recognize These Symptoms

The path from symptoms to treatment is more straightforward than many people expect. A dentist can screen for OSA and provide oral appliance therapy, but the diagnosis itself comes from a physician after a sleep study. Here is how the process typically works at our office:

If you are nervous about the first appointment, our guide to what to expect during your first OSA consultation explains the conversation, the exam, and how the sleep study fits in.

Oral Appliance Therapy as a Treatment Option

For patients diagnosed with mild to moderate OSA, or those who cannot tolerate CPAP, a custom oral appliance can be an effective option. The device is worn like a retainer and gently repositions the lower jaw to help keep the airway open during sleep. You can read more about the benefits of oral appliance therapy, or compare approaches in our post on oral appliance therapy vs. CPAP. Oral appliances are often billed through medical insurance rather than dental insurance, and our team helps verify coverage before treatment begins.

Take the Next Step at Newport Beach Dental Center

Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA is treatable, and addressing it sooner can protect your health, your sleep, and your quality of life. Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, brings advanced training in dental sleep medicine to every OSA evaluation, and our team works alongside your physician so you are not left coordinating care on your own. Patients visit us from Newport Beach and nearby communities throughout Orange County. You can learn more about her background on her doctor profile page.

If any of the risks outlined here feel familiar, we encourage you to take the next step. Reach out to our team through our contact form to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sharbash. You deserve sleep that actually restores you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Untreated Sleep Apnea

If you’ve been waking up exhausted, dealing with persistent headaches, or feeling unusually moody without a clear reason, you might have written it off as stress or a rough patch of sleep. What you may not know is that these experiences are among the most frequently missed warning signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA in women. Research published in the Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine found that women with OSA are significantly underdiagnosed, in part because their symptoms often differ from the textbook male presentation.

At Newport Beach Dental Center, we take OSA seriously as a whole-health issue, not just a nighttime inconvenience. Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, holds a Diplomate certification from the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, a credential that places her among a small group of dentists nationwide trained specifically in oral appliance therapy for OSA.

Recognize the Overlooked Symptoms of OSA in Women

Most people associate Obstructive Sleep Apnea/OSA with loud snoring and gasping for air. While those symptoms can certainly occur, women are far more likely to present with what researchers call “atypical” symptoms. These quieter signs are often misattributed to anxiety, depression, or hormonal changes, which means the root cause never gets treated.

The following are symptoms in women that are commonly linked to OSA but frequently go unrecognized:

• Morning headaches that occur regularly without an obvious cause
• Chronic fatigue or a persistent sense of exhaustion even after a full night of sleep
• Insomnia, including difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Mood disturbances such as irritability, low motivation, or feelings of depression
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating during the day
• Waking up frequently during the night to use the bathroom

These symptoms deserve attention. If several of the above feel familiar, it may be time to speak with a qualified provider to determine whether OSA could be contributing.

Why Are Women So Often Missed?

Part of the problem is that most early OSA research focused heavily on male participants. As a result, the standard screening tools and symptom checklists were built around a male pattern of presentation. Women who report fatigue, mood changes, or insomnia are frequently routed toward mental health evaluations rather than sleep studies, delaying an accurate diagnosis by months or even years.

What Treatment Options Are Available for Women With OSA?

The good news is that effective, non-invasive treatment options exist. For many women, oral appliance therapy is a highly tolerable first-line approach, especially for those who have found CPAP therapy difficult to use consistently. Custom-fitted oral devices reposition the lower jaw slightly forward during sleep, keeping the airway open and reducing the frequency of apnea events.

Dr. Sharbash’s D.ABDSM certification means she is specifically trained to evaluate, fit, and monitor these devices. Learning more about the benefits of oral appliance therapy can help you determine whether this option is right for your situation. Lifestyle modifications, positional therapy, and coordination with a sleep physician are also part of a well-rounded care plan that we help guide.

Schedule a Sleep Apnea Consultation at Newport Beach Dental Center Today

OSA in women is a real, documented, and treatable condition that far too often gets dismissed or misdiagnosed. If any of these symptoms have been part of your experience, you now have a clearer picture of why they should not simply be chalked up to stress or aging. Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM is one of fewer than 6% of general dentists to earn the FAGD designation.

A thorough dental exam can sometimes reveal anatomical signs that warrant further evaluation for OSA. This is one of the reasons why keeping up with regular dental checkups is about more than just your teeth. If you are ready to take the next step, we invite you to contact our office to schedule a consultation and get answers tailored to your health.

Your bedroom may look perfect for sleep, but if you are still tossing and turning at night, the problem might not be your mattress or blackout curtains. Poor sleep hygiene affects millions of Americans, contributing to daytime fatigue, a compromised immune system, and health conditions like obstructive sleep apnea. Your dentist can play a meaningful role in helping you work toward more restorative sleep.

At Newport Beach Dental Center, we understand the connection between oral health and quality sleep. Dr. Laura Sharbash combines her background in general dentistry with advanced training in dental sleep medicine to help patients address sleep concerns through comprehensive care. By looking at both sleep hygiene habits and potential dental factors affecting your rest, we can help you work toward waking up feeling more refreshed.

1. Create a Consistent Sleep Schedule That Your Body Can Trust

Your internal clock thrives on predictability, so maintaining regular sleep cycles helps regulate your circadian rhythm. Try to go to bed and wake up around the same time every day, even on weekends. This consistency helps your body prepare for sleep by releasing melatonin at the right times.

When you establish a routine, your body begins to expect sleep, which can make it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally. Start by finding a bedtime that allows for seven to nine hours of sleep, then stick to it for at least two weeks to help your body adjust.

2. Design a Relaxing Pre-Sleep Routine

Your evening routine should signal to your body that it is time to wind down. Consider activities like gentle stretching, reading, or taking a warm bath. Limiting stimulating activities, such as intense exercise or exciting television, for at least two hours before bed can also help.

If you grind your teeth at night, incorporating jaw relaxation exercises into your bedtime routine can help reduce tension. Gentle jaw massage and stress-reduction techniques can complement professional treatments, such as nightguards, which help protect your teeth while you sleep.

3. Optimize Your Sleep Environment for Maximum Comfort

Your bedroom should be cool, dark, and quiet. Room temperatures between 65 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit typically promote better sleep quality. Consider blackout curtains, eye masks, or white noise machines if your environment has unavoidable light or sound disruptions.

Pay attention to the quality of your pillow and mattress, since proper spinal alignment can help prevent discomfort that disrupts sleep. If you are prone to snoring or have been told you stop breathing during sleep, your sleeping position or oral health may be affecting your airway, which makes it worth discussing with a dental professional trained in sleep medicine.

4. Watch Your Evening Food and Drink Intake

What you consume in the hours leading up to bedtime can significantly impact your sleep quality. Caffeine, large meals, and alcohol close to bedtime can make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night.

Consider these guidelines for better sleep:

• Stop eating large meals at least three hours before bedtime.
• Stop drinking caffeine after 2 p.m., since it can stay in your system for up to eight hours.
• Avoid using alcohol as a sleep aid, since it disrupts sleep cycles and can worsen snoring.
• Choose light snacks if you are hungry before bed, focusing on foods with tryptophan or magnesium.

These dietary adjustments can help reduce nighttime awakenings and support overall sleep quality.

5. Address Potential Sleep-Related Breathing Issues

Many people do not realize that their dentist can help identify signs of obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing recurrently stops during sleep. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, around 26 percent of adults between the ages of 30 and 70 have this condition. Common symptoms include loud snoring, morning headaches, dry mouth upon waking, and daytime fatigue despite spending adequate time in bed. For a closer look at what this condition involves, see our overview of what obstructive sleep apnea is.

During routine dental exams, we can spot signs like worn teeth from grinding, a large tongue, or anatomical features that may contribute to airway obstruction. Early recognition of these signs can lead to sleep apnea treatment options that may improve both sleep quality and overall health.

How Oral Appliance Therapy Fits Into a Sleep Hygiene Plan

Good sleep hygiene habits are the foundation of restorative rest, but for patients with airway-related sleep issues, habit changes alone may not fully resolve the problem. A custom-fitted oral appliance can help keep the airway more open during sleep by gently repositioning the jaw, working alongside the habits above rather than replacing them. Our page on oral appliance therapy covers how this treatment works and who tends to benefit most from it.

If you are unsure whether your sleep concerns are related to habits, your airway, or a combination of both, a conversation with our team is the best place to start. We can help you figure out which pieces of your sleep hygiene routine to adjust first and whether further evaluation makes sense for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Hygiene and Dental Health

Better Sleep Starts With Newport Beach Dental Center

Quality sleep affects every facet of your health, from your immune system to your mood and cognitive function. While good sleep hygiene habits form the foundation of restorative rest, sometimes professional help is needed to address underlying issues that prevent quality sleep. Dr. Sharbash’s advanced training as a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine positions her to help patients work toward better sleep through comprehensive dental care.

Our approach combines sleep hygiene education with dental treatments for sleep-related breathing concerns. With the practice’s tradition of service in this community since 1985, we are committed to helping you work toward the restful sleep you deserve. Do not let another restless night affect your wellbeing; contact us today to learn how we can help improve your sleep quality.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM on July 30, 2026

This might come as a surprise, but your dentist is often the first health care provider to spot signs of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) during your regular checkup. While you’re focused on cavity prevention and keeping your smile bright, your dentist is actually examining clues that could reveal whether you’re getting quality sleep at night. The mouth and throat hold hidden clues about your sleep patterns, and dentists are uniquely positioned to notice the telltale signs that something more serious than snoring might be happening.

At Newport Beach Dental Center, our team looks beyond just your teeth and gums. We examine the bigger picture of your oral health and how it connects to your overall well-being. Dr. Laura Sharbash, a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, brings advanced training in sleep-related breathing disorders to every patient evaluation, combining routine dental care with a comprehensive sleep health screening.

Signs of OSA in Your Mouth

The American Dental Association recognizes that dentists are well positioned to identify patients at risk for sleep-related breathing disorders, since a routine checkup offers a window into airway and jaw health that other providers may not see as often. During your dental exam, several oral indicators can suggest a higher likelihood of OSA. These are the signs your dentist commonly checks for:

• Teeth grinding marks (bruxism): Worn or flattened tooth surfaces, especially on the back teeth, often occur when the body works harder to keep the airway open during sleep.
• Tongue size and position: A large tongue, or one that sits low in the mouth, can crowd the airway during sleep.
• Scalloped tongue edges: Indentations along the sides of the tongue suggest it is pressing against the teeth due to limited space.
• Narrow or high-arched palate: A smaller oral cavity can leave less room for the tongue and airway structures.
• Jaw alignment and bite patterns: Certain bite relationships can narrow the space available for airflow.

None of these signs alone confirms OSA, but together they help your dentist decide whether a conversation about your sleep and a possible referral is worth having. It also helps to know that these warning signs do not always look the same from one patient to the next. In fact, sleep apnea symptoms in women are often overlooked because they can present as fatigue, morning headaches, or mood changes rather than the loud snoring most people associate with the condition.

Beyond the Obvious Signs

During routine cleanings, your dentist also examines your throat and soft palate for signs of inflammation or enlargement that could narrow your breathing passages. A red, irritated throat can point to frequent snoring, while an elongated soft palate or enlarged tonsils can contribute to airway obstruction during sleep.

The positioning of your jaw plays a role in airway health as well. A receding lower jaw or a narrow upper jaw can leave less room for your tongue and airway structures, so your dentist will review your bite and jaw alignment and note how these factors might affect your breathing overnight.

Dry mouth symptoms often accompany OSA because mouth breathing becomes more common when nasal passages or throat structures restrict normal airflow. Your dentist may ask about morning dry mouth, frequent nighttime urination, or waking up with a sore throat, since these details help build a more complete picture of your sleep health alongside the physical exam.

The Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is not just about feeling tired. Left unaddressed, the repeated drops in oxygen and disrupted sleep cycles associated with OSA are linked to a range of general health concerns, including elevated blood pressure, cardiovascular strain, and daytime fatigue that can affect concentration and safety. This is one reason dental screening matters: many people do not realize how disruptive their sleep actually is until a screening conversation prompts them to look closer. If you want a deeper look at how these effects can build over time, our post on the risks of ignoring sleep apnea symptoms walks through the general health concerns associated with leaving OSA unaddressed.

Because the signs of OSA overlap with so many everyday complaints, snoring, restlessness, morning grogginess, it is easy to dismiss them as ordinary tiredness. A dental screening adds another set of trained eyes to the picture, which is part of why professional dental organizations encourage dentists to ask about sleep as part of standard preventive care.

The Screening and Diagnostic Process

It is worth being clear about what your dentist can and cannot do here. Dentists are trained to screen for signs of OSA and identify risk factors, but a formal diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea is made by a physician or sleep medicine specialist, typically based on a sleep study. Your dentist’s role is to notice the warning signs early, ask the right questions, and refer you to the right professional when your risk factors warrant a closer look.

If your dentist notices signs that suggest a higher risk of OSA, they may use screening questionnaires and review your medical and dental history to understand your risk factors more fully. Questions about your sleep quality, a partner’s observations of snoring or breathing pauses, and daytime fatigue levels all help paint a more complete picture before any referral is made.

We sometimes use three-dimensional imaging to evaluate airway dimensions and identify anatomical factors that may contribute to breathing difficulties. This technology allows our team to see the relationship between jaw position, tongue placement, and available airway space more clearly than a visual exam alone, and it gives a sleep medicine physician useful information if a referral becomes necessary. If you are curious about what this evaluation actually involves, our overview of what to expect during your first sleep apnea consultation walks through the process step by step.

Treatment Options

Once a physician has confirmed an OSA diagnosis, your dentist can become part of your treatment team. Many patients are candidates for oral appliance therapy, which uses a custom-fitted device worn during sleep to help maintain proper jaw positioning and support an open airway. For patients who find a CPAP machine difficult to tolerate, an oral appliance can be a more comfortable option, though the right choice always depends on the severity of your case and your physician’s recommendation.

At Newport Beach Dental Center, we work closely with sleep medicine physicians to support comprehensive, coordinated care. You can learn more about the specific devices and approaches we offer on our sleep apnea treatment page. We also stay in communication with other health care providers to help address related concerns, such as elevated blood pressure, that can accompany untreated OSA, so your care plan reflects your full health picture rather than your smile alone.

Newport Beach Dental Center’s Comprehensive Sleep Health Approach

Dr. Laura Sharbash combines her Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry with advanced training as a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine to provide thorough sleep health evaluations. Her dual perspective as both a general dentist and a qualified dental sleep specialist means she can help identify potential risk factors during routine care and coordinate appropriate next steps. Dr. Sharbash’s recognition as one of the “10 Dentists to Watch” by AGD Impact reflects her ongoing commitment to staying current with diagnostic and treatment approaches in dental sleep medicine.

Our practice takes a personalized approach to each patient’s sleep health concerns, pairing a careful oral exam with the diagnostic tools described above to build the most accurate picture possible before any referral. Quality sleep affects nearly every part of your health, from your energy levels to your long-term well-being, and a dental checkup is a simple, low-pressure place to start that conversation. To schedule a comprehensive evaluation, contact our office and let our team know you would like to discuss sleep health screening at your next visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sleep Apnea Screening

Picture this: you wake up feeling like you wrestled with an octopus all night, and your partner gently mentions you sounded like a freight train. If obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been disrupting your sleep, you’re likely wondering whether oral appliance therapy or CPAP therapy offers the better path to a peaceful night’s rest. While both treatments can be highly effective for managing OSA, the right choice depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and severity of the condition.

When it comes to treating obstructive sleep apnea, we understand the importance of finding a solution that fits seamlessly into your life. Dr. Laura Sharbash, a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, brings advanced training in sleep medicine to help patients navigate these treatment options and find the method that works best for their unique situation.

Understanding Your Treatment Options

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy has long been considered the primary method for treating moderate to severe OSA. This treatment uses a machine that delivers pressurized air through a mask, keeping your airway open throughout the night. The constant airflow prevents the throat tissues from collapsing and blocking your breathing.

Oral appliance therapy, on the other hand, takes a different approach. These custom-designed devices work by repositioning your jaw and tongue to maintain an open airway. Think of it as a retainer with a very important job: keeping your breathing passages clear while you sleep.

CPAP Pros and Cons

CPAP therapy offers several compelling advantages. It’s highly effective for severe OSA cases and can provide immediate relief from symptoms. Many patients experience dramatic improvements in energy levels, concentration, and overall quality of life within just a few nights of consistent use.

However, CPAP therapy isn’t without its challenges. Studies show that CPAP adherence ranges from 30 to 60%. The machine requires electricity and regular maintenance, making travel more complicated. Some patients experience discomfort, skin irritation, or claustrophobia while wearing a mask. The noise from the machine, though much quieter than older models, can still disturb light sleepers or their partners.

Oral Appliance Therapy: A Comfortable Alternative

Oral appliance therapy offers a more streamlined approach to OSA treatment. These devices are small, portable, and completely silent. You can comfortably pack them for travel without worrying about power sources or TSA regulations.

The comfort factor often makes oral appliances more appealing for long-term use. Unlike CPAP masks, which some patients find intrusive, oral appliances feel similar to wearing a mouthguard for sports. Most people adjust to sleeping with them within a few nights.

Patient compliance tends to be higher with oral appliances because they’re less disruptive to daily routines. There’s no machine to clean, no filters to replace, and no risk of power outages affecting your treatment.

Making the Right Choice for You

The decision between CPAP and oral appliance therapy depends on several factors. The severity of your OSA plays a crucial role in determining your treatment options. CPAP therapy remains the first-line treatment for severe cases, while oral appliances are effective for mild to moderate OSA.

Your sleep position preferences matter too. If you’re a side sleeper who struggles with CPAP mask positioning, an oral appliance might feel more natural. Active travelers often prefer the convenience of oral appliances, while those who sleep in the same location every night may not mind the setup requirements of CPAP.

Some patients benefit from combination approaches or may need to try different solutions over time. What matters most is finding a treatment you’ll use consistently, because the most effective therapy is the one you actually stick with night after night.

Getting Started With Sleep Apnea Treatment at Newport Beach Dental Center

Dr. Laura Sharbash brings unique qualifications as both a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) and a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (D.ABDSM) to help you navigate your OSA treatment options. Her comprehensive approach considers not only your sleep apnea symptoms but also how treatment fits into your overall health and lifestyle goals.

During your consultation, Dr. Sharbash will review your sleep study results, consider your symptoms and concerns, and help determine whether oral appliance therapy might be right for you. She works closely with sleep physicians to ensure coordinated care and optimal treatment outcomes. Ready to discuss your options for better sleep and improved health? Contact Newport Beach Dental Center at (949) 760-9212 or request an appointment to learn how we can help you achieve the restful sleep you deserve.

It’s common to hear about healthy teeth and healthy gums when visiting the dentist, but did you expect to hear about healthy sleep? Along with improving your oral hygiene, you may not know that a trip to Newport Beach Dental Center may be instrumental in improving your sleep hygiene, too!

How so?

Dr. Laura Sharbash practices dental sleep medicine, which is a growing segment of dentistry that focuses on managing snoring and sleep apnea with oral appliance therapy. 

Oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. An oral appliance fits over your teeth like an orthodontic retainer while you sleep and supports your jaw in a forward position to keep your airway open. A custom-fit oral appliance can improve your sleep, restore your alertness, and revitalize your health.

Many patients prefer oral appliance therapy as a solution for living with sleep apnea, rather than CPAP therapy, because it is: 

• Comfortable – Since an oral appliance fits like a retainer, it’s more comfortable and easier to wear than a CPAP mask that’s connected to a machine – especially for those who change positions during sleep. 

• Quiet – A CPAP machine’s motor constantly runs during the night, which might not help you or your bed partner sleep soundly. An oral appliance is a silent option that can minimize the symptoms of sleep apnea, including loud snoring. 

• Portable – A compact, lightweight oral appliance is much easier to travel with than a bulky CPAP machine. It also doesn’t require electricity, so you can bring it wherever! 

• Easy to Care For – Cleaning and caring for an oral appliance is easy. Just a toothbrush cleaning with mild soap will keep your appliance fresh and clean.

If you or a loved one is seeking treatment for snoring and sleep apnea, schedule a consultation by calling (949) 760-9212 or making an appointment online. We can work together to get you sleeping more soundly!

Sources: American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition in which the airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep, causing repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the condition affects more than 24 million adults in the United States, and an estimated 90 percent of cases go undiagnosed. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health concerns, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, which is part of why an accurate diagnosis matters as much as treatment itself.

At Newport Beach Dental Center, Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, holds a Diplomate credential from the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and offers a personalized approach to managing obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Sharbash provides custom-made oral appliances as part of our sleep apnea treatment options, designed to keep the airway open and help many patients achieve more restful, uninterrupted sleep.

How Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles at the back of your throat relax too much during sleep, causing your airway to become partially or fully blocked. This blockage interrupts your breathing, sometimes hundreds of times a night, leading to restless sleep and other issues like snoring, gasping for air, or waking up frequently.

People with OSA often feel tired during the day, even after what seems like a full night’s sleep. Snoring is a common symptom, but not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, which is why recognizing the full range of signs, including daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes, matters as much as noticing the snoring itself.

Diagnosing OSA typically starts with a sleep study, either in a lab or at home. This test monitors your breathing, oxygen levels, and heart rate while you sleep to assess for sleep apnea. Dr. Laura Sharbash can help identify possible signs of OSA during a routine dental exam, and if needed, she can refer you for further testing to confirm the diagnosis.

What Are the Warning Signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Beyond loud, frequent snoring, several other signs can point toward OSA rather than ordinary tiredness. Waking up gasping or choking, morning headaches, a dry mouth upon waking, and difficulty concentrating during the day are all common indicators. Partners often notice the breathing pauses before the person experiencing them does, since these episodes happen during sleep and are easy to miss otherwise. If several of these signs sound familiar, it is worth bringing them up at your next dental or medical appointment rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.

Who Is at Risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

OSA can affect anyone, but certain factors raise the likelihood of developing it. Excess weight, particularly around the neck, narrows the airway and increases the chance of it collapsing during sleep. Age plays a role too, since the condition becomes more common as muscle tone in the throat naturally decreases over time. A family history of sleep apnea, a naturally narrow airway or recessed jaw, chronic nasal congestion, and smoking all raise your risk as well. Men are diagnosed more often than women, though the gap narrows after menopause, which suggests hormonal factors are also part of the picture. Recognizing these risk factors can help you and your dental or medical provider decide whether a sleep evaluation makes sense, even before more obvious symptoms appear.

How Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treated?

Treating obstructive sleep apnea involves a range of options, and the right approach depends on the severity of the condition and your individual needs. Treatment options range from lifestyle adjustments to medical devices and, in some cases, surgery.

Lifestyle Changes

For individuals with mild OSA, certain lifestyle changes can meaningfully improve symptoms by targeting factors that contribute to airway obstruction during sleep. These commonly include the following:

• Losing excess weight, especially around the neck, to reduce pressure on the airway
• Sleeping on your side instead of your back to help prevent the airway from collapsing
• Avoiding alcohol and sedatives, which relax the throat muscles and increase the likelihood of blockages
• Quitting smoking to reduce airway inflammation and irritation

While lifestyle changes alone are unlikely to resolve moderate to severe OSA, they are often a helpful part of a broader treatment plan.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy

CPAP therapy is the gold standard for treating moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. A CPAP machine delivers continuous air pressure through a mask worn over the nose or mouth, keeping the airway open during sleep. While highly effective, CPAP can be uncomfortable for some patients, and common issues include mask discomfort, noise, and difficulty adjusting to wearing the device. Despite these challenges, consistent use of a CPAP machine can meaningfully improve sleep quality and reduce the health risks associated with OSA.

Oral Appliance Therapy

For patients who have trouble with CPAP or prefer a more comfortable, less invasive option, oral appliance therapy is a strong alternative. Custom-fitted by a dentist, these devices reposition the lower jaw and tongue to help keep the airway open while you sleep. At Newport Beach Dental Center, Dr. Laura Sharbash provides custom oral appliances for sleep apnea that are small, easy to use, and much quieter than a CPAP machine. Many patients find an oral appliance to be a more practical solution for long-term management of their OSA, particularly if they travel frequently or find a CPAP mask uncomfortable. You can compare the two approaches directly in our guide to oral appliance therapy versus CPAP treatment.

What Happens if Obstructive Sleep Apnea Goes Untreated?

Untreated OSA does more than disrupt sleep. The repeated drops in oxygen and the stress placed on the cardiovascular system night after night are linked to a higher long-term risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Daytime fatigue from fragmented sleep can also affect concentration, mood, and reaction time, which carries its own safety implications. You can read more about the specific risks of ignoring sleep apnea symptoms and the health benefits that come with getting the condition properly treated.

Sleep Hygiene and Sleep Apnea Are Not the Same Thing

It is worth distinguishing OSA from ordinary poor sleep habits. General sleep hygiene, meaning your sleep schedule, bedroom environment, and bedtime routine, can meaningfully improve sleep quality for many people, and we cover those habits in more detail in our guide to simple steps for sound sleep. However, sleep hygiene changes alone will not resolve OSA, since the underlying issue is a physical airway obstruction rather than a habit problem. If you have already tried improving your sleep habits and still experience the symptoms described above, an airway evaluation is the more appropriate next step.

Improve Your Sleep With Newport Beach Dental Center

If you are struggling with restless sleep, daytime fatigue, or frequent snoring, you may be dealing with obstructive sleep apnea. Addressing this condition can meaningfully improve not only your sleep but also your overall health and energy levels. At Newport Beach Dental Center, we offer custom-fitted oral appliances designed to help you breathe easier and sleep more soundly.

Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, brings extensive experience in treating sleep apnea with non-invasive, comfortable solutions tailored to your specific needs. Reach out through our online contact form to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Obstructive Sleep Apnea