Understanding
Sleep Apnea
Do you have trouble sleeping? If so, you’re not alone. An estimated 22 million Americans suffer from a lack of sleep—and even exhaustion—caused by sleep apnea. Chronic snoring problems and interrupted sleep aren’t just an inconvenience. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to more serious health risks. Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder that causes interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses in breathing are called apneas and they can happen hundreds of times each night. Sleep apnea can have a negative impact on your health and prevent you from getting the restful night’s sleep your body needs.
Potential Health Issues
From Untreated Sleep Apnea
Continuously interrupted sleep can result in serious health-related problems.
Potential health issues that may result from untreated sleep apnea include:
Sudden death
Heart attack
Stroke
High blood pressure
Dementia
Depression
Inability to concentrate
Impaired memory
Common Symptoms
Sleep Apnea
- Frequent, loud snoring
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Chronic exhaustion even after a full night’s sleep
- Gasping, choking or snorting during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Insomnia
- High blood pressure
- Poor memory, moodiness or difficulty concentrating
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
Sleep Apnea Risk Quiz
Important Considerations for Sleep Apnea
Check all that apply. Use this brief questionnaire and checklist to determine if you might be at risk for sleep apnea.
Complimentary
Sleep Apnea Consultation
Our doctors feel so strongly that knowledge and action can improve and save lives that they are offering a no-cost individual 30 minute consultation on sleep breathing disorders. Whether it’s loud snoring or other sleep apnea symptoms, make sure you are not at risk for this very treatable, potentially life threatening condition. Learn more about sleep apnea and get all of your questions answered. We have a limited number of consultation times available, so schedule yours as soon as possible.
Testimonials
Terry B.
Patient Testimonial
Art B.
Patient Testimonial
Penny Z.
Patient Testimonial
Dr. George Zureikat, MD
Doctor Testimonial
At-Home Sleep Test
A comfortable alternative
If during your consultation it is suspected that you may suffer from sleep apnea, we will assist you in ordering a convenient and accurate home sleep test designed to assist in the diagnosis of sleep-disordered breathing. In the comfort of your own bed, you’ll wear the testing device while sleeping. A Board Certified Sleep Physician will interpret the data and we will contact you to discuss your results.
Sleep Apnea Solutions
There are various methods of treating sleep apnea. One of the following options may be the right solution for you.
Oral Appliances
These devices are custom fitted by qualified dentist who are specially trained in treating Sleep Apnea. They fit in the mouth, similar to a retainer or mouth guard. They open your airway by moving your lower jaw and tongue forward while you sleep. They are small, comfortable and effective.
CPAP Device
With Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), patients wear a specialized mask over the nose and face during sleep. The CPAP device delivers a steady supply of air, keeping the airway open. CPAP treatment can be very effective, however the patient must be willing to use it correctly and consistently.
Upper Airway Surgery
There are several surgical options. Nasal surgery can correct a deviated septum or remove bones in your nose to improve air flow. Surgery may also be performed to remove and/or reduce the size of the soft palate, uvula and back of the tongue. These surgeries are not typically recommended as first line treatments for obstructive sleep apnea.
Benefits of Treatment
Restful Sleep
A full night’s sleep for both you and your partner. Wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Daytime Alertness
Experience increased concentration, memory, focus and energy.
Improved Health
Avoid the health risks caused by untreated sleep apnea and live a longer, healthier, more enjoyable life.
Michigan Dental Sleep Center
Serving this Michigan area since 1983.
We are the ONLY dentist in Genesee County to have the QUALIFIED DENTIST DESIGNATION established by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.
Dr. Mark Williamson
Dr. Mark Williamson has been practicing dentistry in Clio for more than 30 years. He is a member of The American Dental Association (ADA), Michigan Dental Association (MDA) and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM). For the last few years, Dr. Williamson has changed his focus from practicing traditional dentistry to treating patients who suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).
More about Dr. Williamson
Dr. Williamson learned about the role that a dentist can play in the treatment of OSA through his daughter, a Physician’s Assistant who treats OSA herself. She explained to her father that there was a void in the treatment of OSA because there were not enough qualified dentists with the understanding of how to treat these patients.
Dr. Williamson, who suffers from OSA himself, understands the devastating effects that this disease can have on a person’s quality of life. After following the route of traditional diagnosis and treatments including Home Sleep Tests, Laboratory Sleep Tests, CPAP and Bi-pap therapy, Dr. Williamson became very motivated to help himself as well as others who are stricken with this disease.
Dr. Williamson currently has over 140 hours of continuing education in Dental Sleep Medicine and has been recognized by the AADSM as having the “Qualified Dentist Designation”.
Dr. Chad Witkow
Dr. Chad Witkow received his Bachelor of Biological Sciences degree in Physiology from the Michigan State University- Lyman Briggs College of Natural Sciences in 1997. He then earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2002. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the Michigan Dental Association, and the Genesee District Dental Society.
More About Dr. Witkow
He regularly advances his dental knowledge through continuing education with a recent focus on the field of sleep dentistry. He received an Obstructive Sleep Airway Certification from O.S.A. University after being a DentalSleep Medicine Team Member. This coursework provides him with the opportunity to keep his skills at the highest level and learn the latest techniques available from the best dental clinicians in the world.
Dr. Witkow spends his time away from the office with his wife Jen and son Elijah. He enjoys music, going up north to vacation, cooking out in the summer, relaxing with family and friends, and keeping up with all the Michigan sports teams.
Reviews
For Michigan Dental Sleep Center
I have struggled for years with being tired during the day. I went to every doctor/specialist I could. I would get frustrated and just stop; it would get worse and I would try again. I had several sleep studies and was told it was barely "mild" sleep apnea so that couldn't be why I couldn't get up in the morning or why I was falling asleep at my desk or why I was falling asleep while driving. They basically had no idea because I was "close to mild." Then about two years ago I had another sleep study done because I had crossed lines while driving (due to almost falling asleep at the wheel). This study did confirm that I had sleep apnea. The doctor was in the room with me for about five minutes and didn't explain anything. All he said was that he was writing an order for a machine and to go next door to pick it up. I still didn't understand how this would help me because everyone downplayed my condition by saying it was "mild." I tried the machine (which was a full mask), and I just couldn't do it. I gave it back and just continued to try everything I could think of to stay awake. Then my friend told me about some sort of "mouth guard" that was supposed to help and that her previous dentist could help me with it. I set up a consultation with Dr. Mark Williamson at Michigan Dental Sleep Center. He explained my previous sleep study in detail so that I completely understood what it meant. He also told me that "mild" should not have been used to describe it because when it is said that way, you don't take it seriously, which is what I did. He stressed all of the dangers and death related situations that could happen. It's been about a year now since I got my device, and I feel so much better! I sleep all thru the night and not while I am driving. I get to work on time and am not falling asleep. I just feel better all over. Dr. Williamson is always there to help. If I have any questions or concerns, he will bring me in and discuss them thoroughly, so I really understand what is going on.
I used to fall asleep at my desk around 2-3pm a couple times a week. Since I've gotten the appliance, I have not fallen asleep again at the office until, my appliance broke & I was without it for 2 days. I fell asleep at my desk at 2:30pm the second night I was without it!!! It Works!!
I had suffered from sleep apnea for over a decade. I tried all kinds of masks but was constantly at war with them.I felt like I was suffocating. My sleep deprivation continued until I discovered the Dr Mark specialized in dental appliances for sleep apnea. He worked closely with me to get just the right positioning for my appliance to adequately open my airway. My quality of life has improved immensely. I sleep restfully and face each day with renewed energy. Thank you Dr. Mark and Staff!!!
I've been going to Michigan Dental Sleep Center for several months and feel great: no more waking at night, much more energy and more alert during the day, no afternoon drowsy feeling, etc. The process has been incredibly simple: at home sleep study (no in-hospital/overnight stays) and Dr Williamson has been phenomenal to work with. (My wife thinks so too, she is also a patient!!!)
I am so pleased with the oral appliance and so happy I don't have to drag my CPAP all around with me when I travel anymore.
Dr. Mark was my dentist ever since he began private practice. Then he began his journey into helping patients with sleep apnea. He approached me, knowing I had been diagnosed with mild apnea years before, and asked if I was interested in trying a dental appliance instead of a CPAP. He made me an appointment for a sleep study. Thank God. As it turns out, my sleep apnea had become "triple severe" and I could have died. He saved my life.
Common Questions
Regarding Sleep Apnea
If I snore, do I have sleep apnea?
Is it possible that I have sleep apnea even if I don't snore?
What causes sleep apnea?
What is the difference between a CPAP and an oral appliance?
How do you confirm the effectiveness of the oral appliance?
Does insurance cover sleep apnea treatment?
What if I don't have insurance?
How long will it take to adapt to the oral appliance? Will it hurt my teeth?
How often will the appliance need to be replaced?
Will the appliance change my bite?
Are there any side effects of the appliance?
How long will I have to use the oral appliance?
Can’t I just order a boil and bite device off the internet?
Schedule Your Complimentary
Sleep Apnea Consultation
Fill out my online form.