If you snore on a nightly basis, this could drive your significant other crazy, and in many cases, indicate the presence of a serious sleep disorder. Without treatment, this could mean daytime exhaustion and even strained immune system! In today’s blog, your Olathe, KS, dentist talks about how to put a stop to your snoring.
The Causes of Snoring
We snore when our air passages are partially blocked by soft tissues as we sleep. When air is forced through, this creates the loud noise we associate with snoring. Factors could include resting on your back, excessive alcohol consumption before bed, large neck circumference, sinus or allergy issues, deviated septum, obesity and more. However, this could also be a warning sign of a serious disorder, one that could harm your overall health without treatment.
The Link to Sleep Apnea
With sleep apnea, your air passages are completely blocked by soft tissues. You then stop breathing briefly until the brain wakes you after detecting a drop in oxygen. This can happen hundreds of times in the night and you may not even be aware of it. However, this means you’ll likely wake up with dry mouth, feel exhausted during the day, or could wake suddenly in the night gasping for air for choking. Other symptoms include irritability and difficulty concentrating on tasks at work or school. Without treatment, this strains your immune system so more frequent illness is always possible. The stress on your cardiovascular health means a higher risk of everything from high blood pressure and heart disease to stroke and heart attack. When you experience the symptoms we discussed, including chronic snoring, let us know right away!
Possible Treatment Option
Our team can often provide relief with a simple oral appliance. The device is created after we take several images of your smile from multiple angles with digital imaging systems. We use these to create a 3D impression of your smile, so we can design the appliance with precision and accuracy. When ready, this will fit like a nightguard and is worn each night. The comfortable device moves the jaw forward slightly, so air passages remain open and soft tissue collapse is avoided. You don’t snore, and you also avoid the risks of untreated sleep apnea.
If you have any questions, give us a call today.
Do You Have Any Questions About Achieving a Good Night’s Rest?
Our team wants to help you rest at night without difficulty! Schedule an appointment today and learn more about treating a chronic snore. You can also call E-Care Dentistry in Olathe, KS, today at 913-586-2718. Find our office at 15010 S Black Bob Road Olathe, KS 66062. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.
