11
Sep
Still Tired After Sleeping? FAQs About Getting a Better Night’s Rest
If you’re getting the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep each night but still wake up groggy, irritable, or exhausted, something deeper might be affecting your rest. Many patients at Kellerman Dental in Glen Carbon, Illinois, come in with similar concerns, unsure why they’re not feeling refreshed after sleep. Dr. Kevin Kellerman and his team, consisting of Drs. Jessica Wen, Jesse Snyder, and Ashton Stewart specialize in identifying and treating sleep-disordered breathing, including conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, that can silently sabotage your sleep quality.
Below are answers to common questions from patients who are struggling with poor sleep despite logging plenty of hours in bed.
Why am I still tired even though I sleep all night?
If you consistently get enough hours of sleep but still feel tired during the day, you might not be entering the deeper, restorative stages of sleep. Conditions like obstructive sleep apnea can cause repeated interruptions in your breathing throughout the night—often without you realizing it. These micro-arousals prevent your brain and body from fully recharging, leaving you tired no matter how early you go to bed.
What is sleep-disordered breathing, and how do I know if I have it?
Sleep-disordered breathing is a general term for conditions restricting airflow while sleeping. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea, where the airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep. Signs you may be experiencing this include loud snoring, waking up gasping, frequent nighttime awakenings, morning headaches, or dry mouth. If you share a bed, your partner may notice these signs before you do.
How can a dentist help me sleep better?
Dr. Kellerman offers non-invasive solutions for sleep-disordered breathing at our office. One effective option is a custom oral appliance that keeps your airway open by gently repositioning your jaw while you sleep. This alternative to CPAP machines is quiet, comfortable, and easy to use. These appliances are tailored to your mouth for maximum effectiveness and comfort.
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New Patients: (618) 228-3100 | Existing Patients: (618) 288-3535 Schedule Now
Is a sleep study necessary to diagnose sleep apnea?
Yes, a proper diagnosis typically involves a sleep study. Depending on your symptoms, you may be referred for an in-lab sleep study or given a take-home sleep test. This study tracks your breathing, heart rate, oxygen levels, and more to determine whether you are experiencing apneas during the night. Dr. Kellerman can guide you through the process and help interpret the results if you qualify for treatment.
Can lifestyle changes help improve my sleep quality?
Absolutely. While dental appliances are highly effective for many patients, combining treatment with healthy habits can make a big difference. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding alcohol or heavy meals before bed, staying active during the day, and sleeping on your side are all helpful strategies. However, if an undiagnosed breathing disorder impairs your sleep quality, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough.
If you’re frustrated by constant fatigue despite getting plenty of sleep, it’s time to look closely at what’s happening while you rest. Dr. Kevin Kellerman, along with Drs. Jessica Wen, Jesse Snyder, Ashton Stewart, and their team at Kellerman Dental are here to help you uncover the root of your sleep issues and find a solution that works.
Call our Glen Carbon, IL, office today at (618) 228-3100 to learn how we can help you achieve restful, restorative sleep.