Snore appliances really do work!
“We’re sleeping better . . . thanks to our dentist!”
Virtually all of us snore from time to time. In fact, it is estimated that about one third of the population snores regularly. Light snoring is no more than an occasional, inconvenient habit, but heavy, loud snoring could be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea which deprives your body of oxygen. Snoring and sleep apnea are manageable and curable, but most people do not consider contacting their dentist to help them. It’s time to re-consider!
What causes snoring and sleep apnea?
When we fall asleep, the muscles and soft tissues in the throat and mouth relax making the breathing airway smaller. This increases the speed of the air flowing through the airway and causes the soft tissues to vibrate, much like air whooshing out of a balloon.
In more severe cases, the soft tissues collapse against the back of the throat, cutting off the airway for 10 seconds or more. Lack of oxygen forces you to partially awaken, often with a loud gasp in order to open the airway. This condition is called obstructive sleep apnea.
Some of the most common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring, gasping, or jerking during sleep
- Headache and sore throat
- Excessive sleepiness during the day
- Confusion upon wakening, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or depression
What is the best treatment for snoring?
Several simple actions may help you stop snoring, including losing weight, avoiding alcohol, sleeping on your side, and using a humidifier.
The most common treatment for snoring and sleep apnea is a customized oral appliance similar to a sports mouth guard or teeth whitening tray. This specially customized appliance moves the lower jaw into a forward position which enlarges the airway and subsequently, the soft tissue vibration. Clinical research studies have found these appliances to have a success rate of over 80 percent. The key to successful treatment with your oral appliance is custom fitting so that it meets your unique needs and will maintain an open, unobstructed airway while you sleep.
If you have a problem with snoring or believe you may suffer from sleep apnea, give us a call – we have strategies to help you!
If you would like more information our office would be happy to help! Our office is located in Grand Junction, Colorado. Our phone number is (970) 242-3635. Please visit us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/juliegillisddspc) or call us if you have any questions or concerns. You can also email our office at jmgdds@qwestoffice.net for further information.
This information shared with you by Julie Gillis, DDS PC . We feel that your dental health is the top priority, and if we can make your smile more attractive while improving your health that is wonderful! Dr. Gillis practices restorative and cosmetic dentistry including porcelain veneers, tooth whitening, implants, crowns, bridges and periodontal care in Grand Junction, Colorado. Our office website is www.juliegillisds.com. For further information, please contact us at (970) 242-3635. Tooth bleaching is one of the things we do that is actually fun!
Our office is located in Grand Junction, Colorado. Our phone number is (970) 242-3635. Please visit us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/juliegillisddspc) or call or email us if you have any questions or concerns.