Snoring and its prevention
Although occasional snoring is usually harmless, chronic snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea or other medical condition. The physical blockage of air through the mouth and nose is what causes snoring, and the actual sound comes from the vibration of the throat's walls. Things that contribute to the obstruction of airflow include blocked nasal passages, poor muscle tone in the structures of the mouth and throat, and excess fat deposits around these structures.
In some cases, snoring can indicate upper airway resistance syndrome
(UARS). Unlike sleep apnea, people with UARS do not stop breathing at
any point or have decreased blood oxygenation. What they experience is a
decreased airflow when breathing in. The airway narrows and breathing
becomes more difficult, which is why the disorder is often accompanied
by snoring. People with UARS share some of the same symptoms as those
with OSA, yet will test negative with sleep testing. Specialized tests
including measuring changes in the pressure in the esophagus are usually
needed to diagnose UARS.
How is snoring treated?
Depending on the severity of the condition, there are a number of methods used to treat snoring. At the extreme end, treatment can involve surgically altering the structures within the mouth to get rid of the tissue that obstructs the airway during sleep. Another treatment option is the CPAP machine. Using a mask to provide a continuous flow of air, the machine essentially “forces” the structures of the throat to keep the airway open during sleep.
The least invasive treatment involves the use of oral appliances. These small plastic devices are specially selected and designed by a dentist, who works with your physician to ensure it meets your specific needs. Depending on the patient's case, the appliance targets different oral structures. For instance, some appliances move the jaw forward, some prevent the tongue from obstructing the airway, and others combine both techniques.
Advantages of oral appliances include that they are:
- Small and easy to take with you when traveling
- Comfortable and take just a few weeks to get used to
- Non-invasive
- Custom-made
After a few weeks to a few months of monitoring and adjusting the appliance, your initial treatment is complete. From that point on your dentist will periodically check to make sure your oral appliance still suits your needs, though short-term success will often predict long-lasting benefits.
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