Does Chronic Snoring Mean Sleep Apnea?

greenville snoringWhen you snore on a regular basis, this can keep your significant other from resting and also mean a potential link to a serious sleep disorder. Our team can diagnose the issue and provide treatment to help you avoid snoring. In today’s blog, your Greenville, TX, dentist talks about treating issues like snoring and sleep apnea.

The Causes of Snoring

Why do we snore? The loud sound occurs due to the vibrations of soft tissues, which happens when airways are partially blocked by these tissues. We breathe as air is forced through the passages, which creates a loud sound. Factors that increase the risk of snoring include resting on your back, excessive alcohol consumption, and issues with airway obstruction brought on by sinus and allergy concerns, or even a deviated septum. However, if this happens on a nightly basis and wake up suddenly choking or gasping for air, this could be linked to a serious issue known as obstructive sleep apnea.

The Link to Sleep Apnea

With sleep apnea, while we rest airways are completely blocked by the collapse of soft tissues. You stop breathing until the brain registers the sudden drop in oxygen and wakes you. While you may not remember waking, this could interrupt your REM sleep several times a night so you’re rested the next day. After enough time, this could impact your immune system and even strain your heart health! No to mention the issue with your work performance and even your daily interactions, as you’re often moody, confused, and stuck with memory issues. But we can help with a custom oral appliance!

Creating a Custom Oral Appliance

The oral appliance is advice that fits comfortably, looking like a simple mouthguard. The device is actually custom-fitted for your smile, ensuring a proper bite and treatment with precision. The device is worn as you sleep and moves the jaw and tongue forward to keep airways open and free of obstruction. You breathe without interruption and feel more rested and alert the next day. The device is easy to use, clean, and store, and can travel with you too. You can also help by resting on your side, keeping your bedroom dark and cool, and avoiding caffeine and too much alcohol right before bed.

If you have any questions about how we diagnose and treat issues like snoring and sleep apnea, then contact our team today. We want to help you rest with ease.

Find a Solution For Your Snoring With Your Greenville, TX, Dentist!

We want to help you enjoy a better night’s rest and avoid the complications of a sleep disorder. To learn more about our custom oral appliances and other solutions, then give us a call at Dental Sleep Solutions of Greenville & McKinney at (903)455-0516!