We all snore occasionally, and a number of factors could cause us to do so. However, if we tend to snore nightly or nearly nightly, this could actually mean trouble and lead to serious negative impacts on our ability to rest (and on our significant other’s patience). In today’s blog, your El Paso, TX, dentists look at when you should be concerned about your snoring.
Why We Snore
When we snore occasionally, this could be due to sleeping position, for example, resting on our back instead of our side. However, chronic snoring means that we do this every night, or nearly every night, even if we try various remedies or changes to our sleeping habits. A snore happens when airflow is partially blocked by collapsed soft issues in the throat and the back of the mouth. As we breathe and force air through, these tissues vibrate and create a loud sound.
The Possible Link to a Common Sleep Disorder
If you snore chronically, then you could have issues with airway obstruction. Sleep apnea, in which airflow is completely blocked by the collapse of soft tissues, could cause us to stop breathing for brief periods until the brain wakes us, interrupting our sleep cycle and leading to exhaustion. Chronic snoring is often a warning sign of this disorder, along with waking up gasping for air or choking, headaches and migraines, dry mouth, moodiness, and difficulty concentrating on tasks at work or school. If you begin to experience nightly snoring or any of these other possible symptoms, then please let us know so we can help diagnose your sleep issues.
Treatment Options and Better Sleep Habits
Often, we treat the issue with an oral appliance. Our team will take detailed impressions and measurements of your teeth, gums, jaw, and oral structures so we can create a custom-made device that looks and fits like a mouthguard. When worn at night, the device actually helps reposition the jaw to keep airways open and prevent the collapse of soft tissues, so you breathe without interruption. Other tips include avoiding alcohol and caffeinated products before bed, going to bed and waking up at the same times daily, resting on you side instead of your back, and avoiding large meals or vigorous experiences right before laying down. If you have any questions about snoring and sleep apnea, then contact our team today to learn more.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO, TX ABOUT SLEEP HABITS
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, we know how our sleep impacts our quality of life, and we want to help you enjoy a better night’s rest. For more information on our general and preventive procedures, contact your El Paso, TX, dentists at Sunny Smiles on Dyer Street by calling 915-859-7000.