5 Sleep Apnea Myths we want you to stop believing
Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders in the U.S., and it’s also one of the most misunderstood.
Every night, countless Austinites toss, turn, and snore, often without realizing they may have a condition that’s affecting their health, energy, and even their relationships.
Unfortunately, myths and misinformation about sleep apnea keep many people from getting the help they need. Here at Goehring Dental in South Austin, TX, we’re committed to providing effective sleep apnea treatments, including NightLase® therapy , that help our patients finally get the rest they deserve.
Let’s clear up five of the biggest myths once and for all!
Myth #1: Snoring Is Just Annoying, Not a Health Problem
We’ve all joked about snoring, but it’s no laughing matter when it comes to your health! Snoring is often a sign of a blocked airway and could indicate sleep apnea.
The truth: Sleep apnea causes pauses in breathing throughout the night, which puts strain on your heart and increases your risk for high blood pressure, diabetes, and fatigue. If your partner has been nudging you awake all night, or you wake up feeling unrefreshed, it may be time to get screened for snoring and sleep apnea.
Myth #2: Only Older, Overweight Men Get Sleep Apnea
Yes, weight and age can increase your risk, but they’re not the only factors. Airway structure, family history, and lifestyle all play a role.
The truth: Sleep apnea can affect men, women, and even children. Women are often underdiagnosed because their symptoms (like morning headaches, brain fog, or anxiety) can look different from men’s. At our Austin dental office, we see patients of all ages and backgrounds who are surprised to learn their “just tired” feeling was actually linked to a sleep disorder.
Myth #3: CPAP Is the Only Way to Treat Sleep Apnea
For decades, CPAP machines have been the gold standard. But while they’re effective, not everyone can tolerate them. Masks can feel bulky, noisy, or uncomfortable, and traveling with one is a hassle.
The truth: Dentists can provide alternatives, like custom oral appliances that reposition your jaw and keep your airway open at night. They’re small, comfortable, and easy to take anywhere.
Here at Goehring Dental, we offer NightLase® therapy, a gentle, non-invasive laser treatment that reduces snoring and helps open the airway without devices, chemicals, or anesthesia. For many patients, NightLase® is a simple way to improve sleep quality naturally.
Myth #4: If You Sleep Through the Night, You Don’t Have Sleep Apnea
Think you’re fine because you don’t wake up gasping? Not so fast. Many people with sleep apnea never fully wake up during the night. Instead, their brain constantly pulls them out of deep sleep to restore normal breathing.
The truth: Even if you think you’re sleeping “enough,” you may not be getting restorative rest. If you rely on multiple cups of coffee just to get through your workday, sleep apnea could be the hidden reason.
Myth #5: Dentists Can’t Help with Sleep Apnea
This is one of the most common myths we hear, and it’s simply not true! Dentists trained in dental sleep medicine are uniquely equipped to identify airway issues and provide effective treatments.
The truth: At Goehring Dental, we offer multiple solutions tailored to your needs, our most innovative being NightLase® laser therapy. Our goal is help you wake up rested, energized, and healthier.
Ready to get some better sleep?
Don’t let myths keep you from the restful sleep and health you deserve! Contact Goehring Dental today to explore personalized treatment options to help you breathe easier, snore less, and finally feel rested.
Schedule a consultation today by giving us a call at (512) 892-8822 or contact us by filling out the form below. Together, we can make restless nights and snoring a thing of the past!
