At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix-East, we see firsthand how sleep apnea affects the lives of our patients—and the numbers across the United States are staggering. While many associate sleep apnea with loud snoring or feeling tired, the true impact runs much deeper, and it’s more common than most people realize.
How Common Is Sleep Apnea?
According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, an estimated 30 million adults in the U.S. suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—but only about 6 million are officially diagnosed. That means 80% of cases go undetected, leaving millions at risk for serious health issues.
OSA occurs when the airway becomes repeatedly blocked during sleep, often due to relaxed throat muscles, jaw positioning, or nasal obstructions. These pauses in breathing can happen dozens or even hundreds of times per night, disrupting sleep and straining the heart and brain.
Who Is at Risk?
Sleep apnea doesn’t discriminate. While it’s more common in men, especially those over 40 or with a higher body mass index (BMI), women, children, and even physically fit individuals can be affected. Risk factors include:
- Chronic snoring
- Excess weight
- Nasal congestion or obstruction
- TMJ disorders
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Jaw or facial structure imbalances
The Health Impact Is Serious
When left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to:
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Chronic fatigue
- Mood disorders
- Cognitive impairment
- Poor performance at work or school
Children with sleep-disordered breathing may also experience behavioral problems, bedwetting, difficulty focusing, or even misdiagnoses like ADHD.
The Good News: There Are Better Solutions Than Ever
Here at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Phoenix-East, we specialize in identifying the root causes of sleep-disordered breathing—whether it’s due to airway obstruction, jaw misalignment, or soft tissue dysfunction.
We offer:
- Home sleep testing using the Somfit system for convenient, data-rich diagnostics
- Custom treatment plans including oral appliance therapy, myofunctional therapy, and airway support
- Collaborative care with ENTs, pediatricians, orthodontists, and sleep physicians
- Innovative therapies like VivAer for nasal airway remodeling
Take the Next Step Toward Better Sleep
If you or someone you care about struggles with snoring, daytime fatigue, jaw pain, or suspected sleep apnea, don’t wait. Early intervention can protect long-term health—and improve quality of life dramatically.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation or refer a patient. We’re here to help restore sleep, breathing, and total body health.
