Anti-snoring treatments

Snoring is one of those problems that people often joke about but for the sufferer and anyone sleeping near them, it is far from funny. There are a variety of reasons why we snore and around 40% of adults suffer from the condition – it also gets worse as we age. Now at Whitehouse & Partners we can offer anti-snoring treatments to help everyone get a good night’s sleep.

Snoring and sleep

One condition that leads to snoring is called obstructive sleep apnoea. This happens when the upper airways are obstructed for a few seconds or even longer and no in-breath is taken. When the breathing resumes, there is a loud gasp for air – a snore.   Suffers usually remain asleep and oblivious to what has happened. However, that lack of air for a period can cause other problems when awake and can also lead to disturbed sleep.

Not all snores suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea but everyone who suffers from the condition will find that they snore. A medical diagnosis is used to find out if the condition is the cause of the problem.

Anti-snoring treatments

Once a doctor has confirmed that you have the condition, your dentist can help with anti-snoring treatments. This involves creating an oral appliance that is worn during the night and prevents snoring. Most use two sections to fit over the upper and lower teeth and use a connector that keeps the lower jaw in a forward position.   This opens up the throat, increases airflow and stops those breathing pauses.

These devices are custom made for each person so a dentist will need to take a series of measurements and impressions in order for the device to be created. Once it is created, it can then be fitted to ensure it should work as well as possible so at least two trips to the dentists will be required.