Snoring is a common problem, which affects 60% of men and 40% of women over the age of 40. Snoring can not only disturb sleep of the individual and partner but can also be a sign of a more serious medical disorder, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Both of these disorders typically come from a narrowing of the airway space due to the tongue falling back throat and soft palate.
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Apnea occurs when the obstruction becomes significant enough to cause a decrease or cessation of breathing for a short period, thereby affecting blood oxygen levels. This is often followed by a gasp or large catch-up breath and arousal from sleep. The decreased level of oxygen can lead to hypertension, excessive sleepiness, headaches and increased incidence of stroke, heart disease and diabetes. Therefore OSA is a very treatable disorder that can save lives.
The initial treatment for snoring and OSA is to reduce any contributing factors such as certain medications, alcohol, sleeping on back and weight loss. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has recognized the effectiveness of treating snoring and Sleep Apnea with specialized oral appliances. These specialized oral appliances advance and open the lower jaw, thereby reducing the soft-tissue obstructions in the back of the throat. This process works similarly to when one is to give CPR they move the lower jaw forward prior to rescue breathing.
However, if OSA is suspected, a full medical evaluation and sleep study by a specialized sleep physician will be prescribed. The most commonly prescribed treatment for OSA is a CPAP device worn at night. However, many people cannot tolerate CPAP to due to mask leakage, claustrophobia, being tethered to the machine, or due to appearance. Some people also choose to use an oral appliance for traveling or when they tire of wearing the CPAP. Snoring can be treated at any time, but treatment of OSA can only be done by physician referral. Surgery is sometimes indicated for OSA. Snoring without OSA is a very treatable disorder and can be eliminated or significantly reduced in 80-90% of the population with oral appliances. As these appliances can affect the jaw and teeth position, they should be provided by a dentist specially trained in jaw function in order to minimize the chances of bite changes and jaw disorders. There are several different designs which are customized to a patients specific needs.
