When we snore at night, we not only have trouble resting, but we could be preventing our significant other from resting easy too! In addition, this could be a warning signs of a serious disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist would like to look at what you can do to stop snoring!

The Causes of Snoring

So, what makes us snore? First, the noise is created by partially blocked airways. As we sleep, these air passages become partially obstructed by soft tissues in our throat and in the rear of the mouth. As we breathe and air is forced through these passages, this vibrates soft tissues to create a loud, obnoxious noise. Now, since OSA is caused by the complete blockage of air passages, which causes people to stop breathing in the night and have their sleep cycle interrupted multiple times, chronic snoring could be a warning sign. In addition to trying the remedies we suggest, be sure to let us know so we can perform an assessment and if necessary, a home sleep test.

Treating the Issue at Home

First, try to rest on your side, not your back, as this limits the risk of soft tissue collapse. Be sure you maintain a good sleep schedule, which means going to bed and waking up at the same times daily. Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and screen-free. Find you now that the blue light a smartphone emits is recognized by the brain as sunlight? A glance at your phone before bed could actually make going to sleep more difficult! In the two hours before bed, try to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, large meals, or vigorous exercise too. Our habits before bed could be a major factor in how well we rest, and how often we snore.

Assessing OSA and Treating It

A sleep assessment is basically a series of questions to gauge how we you rest, and if you’re exhibiting the common warning signs of OSA. Lack of treatment could mean strain on both your immune and cardiovascular system in the coming years, so treatment is crucial. We may move forward with a home sleep test and possibly a lab study too. Treating the disorder often means comfortable and custom-made oral appliance, which is worn like a mouthguard during the night. If you have any questions about our assessments and treatment options, then contact our team today.

Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville Treats Your Snoring

At Smith Family Dentistry, we want to help both you and your significant other enjoy an easier time sleeping at night. To learn more about how we help you rest easier with at-home sleep appliances, then talk to Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville by contacting our office at 903-455-0516.