Snoring and Sleep Apnea Solutions

Do you routinely catch yourself dozing off in the afternoon? Does your partner constantly complain about your snoring? Are you feeling like you just aren’t sleeping well at night, even though you can’t remember tossing or turning? If so, you may be suffering from a common but underdiagnosed problem known as obstructive sleep apnea.

woman sleeping while working


What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

annoyed woman to snoring man

Characterized by loud and frequent snoring, obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the tongue and soft palate collapse onto the back of the throat, blocking the upper airway. This obstruction causes you to stop breathing up to hundreds of times a night for anywhere from a few seconds to more than a minute. If left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea is a potentially life threatening disease that can increase the risk for serious health problems. These problems include congestive heart failure, stroke, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, depression and impotence. Pay attention to the following warning signs:

  • Loud, frequent snoring – Loud and frequent snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea. 
  • Breathing pauses – By definition, sleep apnea involves repeated breathing pauses throughout the night. Your bed partner may hear you gasp for breath in your sleep or may wait (slightly panicked) to hear you take your next breath. 

Watch for:

  • Excessive daytime sleepiness (the ability to fall asleep anywhere, at any time)
  •  Memory problems
  • Irritability or moodiness
  • Decreased sex drive or impotence
  • Morning headaches
  • Acid reflux symptoms such as indigestion and heart burn or chest pain 

Who has Sleep Apnea?

If you think you have sleep apnea, you’re not alone. Obstructive sleep apnea is a common problem that can affect people of any age and body type. The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine reports that at least 25 million adults in the United States suffer from sleep apnea.

Although sleep apnea can occur at any age, the risk increases as you get older. While the sleep disorder is more common in men, it can occur in women too, especially during and after menopause. Having excess body weight, a narrow airway, a recessed chin or misaligned jaw all can increase the risk of sleep apnea.

How do I Know if I Have Sleep Apnea?

In order to be diagnosed with Sleep Apnea you should see a Board Certified Sleep Medicine Doctor. Once diagnosed, your doctor will talk to you about your treatment options. The most common treatment for sleep apnea is continuous positive air pressure therapy or “CPAP machine”. The machine keeps your airway open by providing forced air via flexible tubing. CPAP therapy is effective, however some people are unable to tolerate the machine. If this is the case your Doctor can give you a prescription for a sleep apnea appliance.

If you think you may have sleep apnea – don’t worry – we can help. Our trained team at GC Dental Arts can answer your questions about obstructive sleep apnea, including the process for diagnosis and treatment options.

Oral Appliance Therapy 

Oral appliance therapy is an alternative option for the treatment of Sleep Apnea. It is an FDA approved orthotic device fabricated by specialized and licensed dentists. Our custom designed appliance gently realigns the tongue and the jaw to assure open airway as you sleep. Many patients prefer an oral appliance because it is comfortable, portable, quiet and easy to wear.

Dr. Joseph Gulle and Dr. Erika Caviedes are committed to helping patients sleep better, improve their health and enhance their quality of life. We follow the recommended guidelines of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and our practice adheres to practice protocols that are consistent with highest levels of patient care.

Schedule a consultation to discuss sleep apnea by calling 813-672-4900 or visit us online at www.GCDentalArts.com.


Our Location

13051 Summerfield Square Dr., Riverview, FL 33578

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

GC Dental Arts

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "Very clean and wanted to make sure I was safe. One person helped me along with the doctor so I didn’t interact with many people. Friendly warm and welcoming. Great report no cavities."
    Deborah Talley
  • "One of my crowns broke off… I was hoping just to get it glued back on, but unfortunately I had to go get a root canal and then go back to get a post put in and the crown back on. They were able to get me into a specialist the next day and then the following day back to the dentist. Entire staff very professional and caring. If you are in need of a new dentist go to GC Dental Arts you won’t be disappointed. Thank you for taking such good care of all of your clients. Highly recommend them."
    Chris Davis
  • "This place is top-notch I had my appointment I don't know if it's during or after pandemic started on May 20th. I was treated as if I was going into a surgical procedure. Went straight from my car to the exam room where I sterilized my mouth with a peroxide water mixture, and the hygienist was covered from head to toe to do my cleaning. They are a great place with a great staff and amazing doctors. Don't hesitate to book an appointment with them!"
    Gina Nowack
  • "Caring, honest, excellent service. Referred by a friend and have been very pleased with my visits since I became a patient last year. Highly recommend this office"
    Vivian Campbell
  • "he staff here was wonderful and made me feel right at home. They were quick and thorough and I was very pleased with the level of service I received. I would highly recommend this Dentist!!!"
    Jeff Roberts
  • "I have been with Gc dental arts for awhile now and every time I go it’s a great experience. The staff do a good job and Gc dental arts did very well with their preparations and safety during COVID-19 outbreak. I would highly recommend giving them a try."
    Zachary Judd
  • "Great service! Clean, honest and friendly. They do not overbook so don’t have to wait pass your appointment time."
    Kruskaya Urbina
  • "They did a really good job. Love the people and atmosphere."
    Deborah Judd
  • "The staff is too notch taking all the necessary precautions. It was nice to see then and be treated so well."
    Cristine Lybbert
  • "I’m one of those people who are not fans of dental visits but Dr Gulle and his staff are very caring and knowledgeable. Starting with the front office and his assistants, they insure you are comfortable and welcome. I just recommended him to my daughter and would highly recommend to others."
    Mary Beth Scanlon
  • "The staff was pleasant and professional. Was able to get the needed help in a timely manner."
    Joseph
  • "The hygienist was very good and explain everything."
    Odrys
  • "Thank you for the excellent service, as usual, by Gabby and Dr. Joe Gulle. Thank you also for the toothbrushes you donated for our medical mission."
    Valentin