Getting quality sleep plays an essential role in your health and well-being. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, approximately 90 million Americans suffer from snoring activity during sleep. Lack of sleep can negatively affect your relationships, mental and physical health, and personal safety.

Our family dentist in Cedar Park can create custom-made oral devices that minimize snoring and help to combat sleep apnea, allowing you to get a better night’s sleep.

What causes snoring?

While you are sleeping, turbulent airflow through narrowed airways of the nose and throat causes the tissues of these areas to vibrate loudly. This creates the sound you hear when someone is snoring. Snoring can be affected by various factors, including stages of sleep, sleeping position, obesity and the use of medications and alcohol.

Snoring can be troublesome, not only for the person who snores, but for his or her partner. Conflict that may arise from being kept awake all night or sleeping in separate rooms can cause relationships to suffer. Frequent snoring can also be a sign of sleep apnea.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing frequently stops and starts. You may suffer from it if you snore frequently and feel worn out, even after a full night’s sleep. Getting treatment for this common sleep disorder may help to prevent some of its effects, which can include daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, heart problems, and depression.

 

 

 

We Can Help

Many people find that using a dental device is more comfortable than wearing a CPAP mask. There are two common types of dental devices that are used to treat mild to moderate sleep apnea:

Mandibular advancement devices are custom-fabricated, adjustable dental devices that position the lower jaw forward, increasing space in the airway and reducing soft tissue vibration. Pushing the lower jaw and tongue slightly forward helps to prevent throat muscles and tissues from collapsing back into the airway and can facilitate normal breathing during sleep.

Tongue Retaining Mouthpieces are similar but contain a small compartment that fits around the tongue. This mouthpiece uses suction to keep the tongue forward and prevent it from falling back into the airway.

If you are ready for a good night’s sleep and increased energy, family dentist Dr. Sura in Cedar Park can help. Contact the team at Reveal Dental at (512) 337-2316 to schedule an appointment today!

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