Portland's Premier Dental Sleep Apnea Clinicians
Snoring occurs when the tongue, soft palate, and other throat tissues relax during sleep, causing the airway to narrow and tissues to vibrate. While often just a nuisance, snoring can sometimes indicate a more serious condition, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which has significant health implications.
According to the National Council on Aging, about 70% of people who share a bed say their partner snores.
Custom-fitted oral appliances are increasingly recognized as an effective treatment option for managing both obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and snoring.
These appliances are specially designed to fit the unique contours of a patient's mouth, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness. By holding the lower jaw slightly forward during sleep, these devices help maintain an open airway, which significantly reduces the likelihood of airway collapse and the resultant snoring sounds.
What Are My Options for Oral appliances?
There are currently over 150 Oral Appliances on the market. During your examination we will explore which sleep appliance is best for you. We will customize the selection of your device, based on your individual needs and dental status.
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Snoring FAQs
Q: What causes snoring?
A: Snoring occurs when throat tissues relax during sleep, causing the airway to narrow and the tissues to vibrate.
Q: Is snoring always a sign of Sleep Apnea?
A: Not always. While snoring can be a symptom of Sleep Apnea, it can also occur without it. However, persistent loud snoring should be evaluated to rule out Obstuctive Sleep Apnea.
Q: How is Sleep Apnea diagnosed?
A: Sleep Apnea is diagnosed through sleep studies, which can be done in a sleep lab or at home using Home Sleep Test devices.
Q: When should I see a doctor about my snoring?
A: It's advisable to consult a doctor if your snoring is loud, persistent, and accompanied by daytime fatigue, gasping, or choking sounds at night.
Q: What are the risks of untreated Sleep Apnea?
A: Untreated Sleep Apnea can lead to serious health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Q: How are Sleep Apnea and snoring treated?
A: Treatment options include CPAP therapy, Oral Appliance Therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.
Q: Are oral appliances comfortable to use for snoring?
A: Yes, most patients find them comfortable as they are custom-fitted. They are also less intrusive compared to CPAP machines.
Q: Can children snore or have Sleep Apnea?
A: Yes, children can snore and also suffer from Sleep Apnea, often due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Treatment can involve surgery or airway pressure therapy.
Q: How can I improve my compliance with CPAP therapy?
A: Improving compliance can involve using a humidifier, ensuring proper mask fit, gradual acclimatization, and ongoing support from a sleep medicine professional.
Q: Can lifestyle changes help with snoring and Sleep Apnea?
A: Yes, weight loss, avoiding alcohol before bedtime, and sleeping on your side can help reduce snoring and alleviate mild Sleep Apnea.