Has a roommate, family member, or partner told you that you snore? If so, then you might be searching for a simple but effective snoring treatment. Luckily, our dentists in Dallas, TX, have a quick and convenient way to help you manage chronic snoring with custom-made oral appliances.
At Lakewood Dental Group, Dr. Shaun Sigurdson and Dr. Mihir Patel have years of training and experience helping patients address sleep disorders that result in bothersome snoring. Rather than bulky machines and pesky headgear, our team can use comfortable oral appliances to help patients sleep better and wake up refreshed.
What is snoring?
Snoring occurs when the airway is blocked by oral or pharyngeal tissue, resulting in vibrations that resonate in the oral and nasal passages. Most people snore, but chronic snoring is a medical issue that requires attention. Otherwise, patients will notice a steep decline in their oral and overall health.
What causes snoring?
Many factors can influence snoring, such as:
- Age: Snoring is more common in older patients than younger patients. However, chronic snoring can affect patients of all ages.
- Obesity: Obese or overweight patients experience chronic snoring more frequently than individuals with lower body mass. Excess weight on the neck can constrict the airway while laying down, which can lead to inhibited breathing and snoring.
- Physiological differences: Patients with narrow throats, large tonsils or adenoids, or cleft palates tend to snore more often.
- Gender: Data suggest that approximately 70% of men experience chronic snoring, while only 56% of women experience chronic snoring.
- Medications, tobacco products, and alcohol: Sleep aids, smoking, and alcohol all contribute to higher rates of documented snoring in both women and men.Sleep posture: When patients sleep on their backs, gravity pushes their tongues toward their throats, which constricts airflow. As a result, sleeping on the back often results in snoring and decreased blood-oxygen levels.
Is snoring caused by sleep apnea?
In many cases, yes, snoring is the result of sleep apnea. Common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Halted breathing for several seconds multiple times a night
- A choking feeling upon waking
- Gasping for air after waking up
- Feeling extremely tired during the day
- Trouble concentrating
- Anxiety and depression
- Jaw pain or frequent headaches
- High blood pressure
Patients who believe that they might be suffering from sleep apnea should schedule an appointment with our Lakewood dentists immediately. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to significant health issues, including declining oral health.
How can I treat chronic snoring?
At Lakewood Dental Group, we can help patients manage chronic snoring with custom oral appliances. Dr. Sigurdson and Dr. Patel use 3D imaging technology to create personalized devices that are designed to keep the jaw and tongue stable during sleep. As a result, the airway remains free and open, which prevents snoring.
Talk to Us About Snoring Treatment Today
Chronic snoring can lead to numerous health issues, including worsening oral, mental, and physical health. So, if you’re ready to address your snoring with an experienced Lakewood dentist, then you need to call Lakewood Dental Group today. Our team can help you breathe easier at night for refreshing sleep that improves your quality of life.
New and existing patients can schedule an appointment at our Dallas dental office by calling (214) 827-1885, or they can schedule an appointment online.
