Every now and then, all of us snore. However, a few of us may do so on a nightly basis, and this could be a warning signs of a serious sleep disorder. In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist will look at what makes us snore, and how to stop, even if you suffer from a disorder like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)!
Common Causes
Snoring occurs when our air passages are partially blocked. As air is forced through these passages while we breathe, a loud sound erupts. For most people, this happens sporadically, as a result of being usually tired, or due to sinus or allergy issues. You may even have a deviated septum that makes snoring more likely. However, that doesn’t mean this is a purely harmless issue! For those who experience chronic snoring, this could be a symptom of a much larger issue.
When to Be Concerned
When you snore on a nightly basis, and if you also experience daytime drowsiness, moodiness, or trouble staying awake or concentrating, then you could be suffering from OSA. With OSA, the air passages in your throat and the rear of your mouth end up completely blocked due to collapsing soft tissues. You snore, but you also stop breathing several times a night. The brain wakes you, interrupting your sleep cycle. You assume you rested the night before, when in actuality you were woken multiple times. Over the years, lack of treatment could mean this disorder causes more trouble than simple daytime exhaustion. The strain to your immune system could lead to more frequent illness, and the strain on your cardiovascular system could mean high blood pressure, heart disease, even stroke or heart attack!
Sleep Appliance Solution
If you suffer from nightly snoring, then let us know. We have an online sleep assessment, and a home sleep study, to assess your risk factors and see if you need treatment. If so, then we can offer a CPAP alternative with a custom sleep appliance. The appliance is worn as you sleep, fitting like a mouthguard, and helps reposition the jaw to prevent the collapse of soft tissues. You breathe without interruption throughout the night, and feel more rested and alert the next day. If you have any questions about diagnosing and treating issues like OSA, or if you snore on a frequent basis, then contact our team today. We want to help you enjoy a better night’s rest!
Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Treats Snoring
At Smith Family Dentistry, we want to make sure you enjoy a good night’s rest, and avoid complications due to a sleep disorder. Learn more about better sleep habits, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.