We’ve Moved! Please note our new address:

Michigan Dental Sleep Center | 4279 West Vienna Road, Clio, MI 48420

Please call (810) 202-0351 for more information or directions.

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.

VIDEO: What is Sleep Apnea?
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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:

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Sudden death

Heart attack

Stroke

High blood pressure

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Diabetes

Obesity

ADHD

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Dementia

Depression

Inability to concentrate

Impaired memory

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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.


Low Risk

Please call (810) 202-0351 to schedule your sleep consultation.

Dr. Mark Williamson | Dr. Chad Witkow | Sleep Therapy | Clio, MI
Michigan Dental Sleep Center, Inc. - Dr. Witkow and Dr. Williamson

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.

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Art B.

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Penny Z.

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Dr. George Zureikat, MD

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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 take home test | CPAP alternative | Clio, MI
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Sleep Apnea Solutions

There are various methods of treating sleep apnea. One of the following options may be the right solution for you. 

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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 in use | Sleep Apnea Treatment | Clio, MI

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.

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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.

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Benefits of Treatment

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Restful Sleep

A full night’s sleep for both you and your partner. Wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

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Daytime Alertness

Experience increased concentration, memory, focus and energy.

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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.

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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.

Dr. Mark Williamson | Dr. Chad Witkow | Sleep Therapy | Clio, MI

Reviews

For Michigan Dental Sleep Center

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Common Questions

Regarding Sleep Apnea

If I snore, do I have sleep apnea?

Snoring frequently accompanies sleep apnea but it is not always an indicator of whether this sleep condition is present. However, snoring can indicate that bulky throat tissue could potentially obstruct airways – especially if patients have certain lifestyle factors that contribute to sleep apnea. Fortunately, the treatment we offer for sleep apnea and snoring is the same. By prescribing a custom oral appliance, the diameter of the airway can be widened to prevent the sounds of snoring as well as episodes of apnea. These oral appliances are soft and comfortable to wear. They work by positioning the lower jaw slightly forward so that the airway is no longer obstructed.

Is it possible that I have sleep apnea even if I don't snore?

Anyone of any age can have sleep apnea. Even though snoring can accompany sleep apnea, it is not always a symptom of this sleep disorder.  For your convenience, our practice provides a service in which a sleep test device can be mailed to your home. After usage, the device is mailed back to the medical service provider where a board certified sleep doctor will analyze the data. If we find that sleep apnea is present or determine if snoring is obstructing one’s quality of life, we will provide treatment recommendations.

What causes sleep apnea?

The exact cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is different for each person. Anyone can develop it, regardless of age or gender. The most common risk factors include:

  • Being over age 40
  • Having a large neck (over 17 inches in men, 16 inches for women)
  • Being overweight – approximately half of OSA sufferers are overweight
  • Being male – more men than women suffer from OSA
  • Having a large tongue or small jaw
  • Enlarged tonsils and adenoids (particularly in children)
  • Using alcohol or sedatives which relax the muscles in the airway
  • Nasal obstruction due to a deviated septum or sinus and allergy problems

What is the difference between a CPAP and an oral appliance?

While CPAP is very effective in treating sleep apnea, many people cannot tolerate the discomfort of  the mask and the inconvenience and noise of the machine. Therefore a high percentage of users have difficulty or will not wear them.  

An oral appliance is a popular alternative to the CPAP. This device is small, portable, fits more comfortably and can provide similar treatment benefits.

How do you confirm the effectiveness of the oral appliance?

You will have a follow-up sleep study while using your oral appliance to confirm the effectiveness of the device. A consultation with the sleep medicine physician will be necessary to interpret the results.

Does insurance cover sleep apnea treatment?

Insurance plans vary widely, but our experienced team has found that most insurance companies cover a significant amount of the cost for treatment. If coverage is available for oral appliances, it will come from your medical insurance carrier. Most dental insurance companies do not cover treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

Our patients tell us it is well worth the investment of their time and money to treat their sleep apnea because of the improved quality of life they experience.

What if I don't have insurance?

We offer financing options and will work with you to find a solution that fits your needs.

How long will it take to adapt to the oral appliance? Will it hurt my teeth?

The majority of patients will adapt to the appliance within 5-10 days. It will take a few days to get used to having a device in your mouth while you sleep. The appliance will not hurt your teeth. If your teeth are sore after initial use, we can easily adjust it for your comfort.

How often will the appliance need to be replaced?

They are made of hard acrylic, which is very durable. They are typically replaced every 3-5 years depending on wear and tear. If you grind your teeth, you may have a more frequent rate of repair or replacement.

Will the appliance change my bite?

A change in your bite is possible. Depending on the position of your teeth and the status of your bone, your teeth may shift. This can be minimized with the use of a morning re-positioning device.

Are there any side effects of the appliance?

The most common side effect is morning muscle soreness that usually goes away after a short time. Some patients may experience either dry mouth or excessive salivation. As mentioned above, minor tooth movement occurs in some patients.

How long will I have to use the oral appliance?

Obstructive sleep apnea in unlikely to decrease with age; therefore your oral appliance will probably be a lifelong therapy. However, certain wellness factors such as significant weight loss may improve your symptoms.

Can’t I just order a boil and bite device off the internet?

While there are over-the-counter appliances you can order, keep in mind these are not FDA approved for treating sleep apnea. Additionally, when not fitted properly they may cause unwanted side effects such as jaw problems or excessive tooth movement.

Learn More about Airway Obstruction and Sleep Apnea

Schedule Your Complimentary
Sleep Apnea Consultation

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Michigan Dental Sleep Center | 4279 West Vienna Road, Clio, MI 48420 | (810) 202-0351

There will be a $50.00 broken appoinment fee for a no show or cancellation that is less than 24 hours notice.