We all are familiar with the sound of snoring but what causes snoring and how can a Beverly Hills sleep apnea dentist help? Snoring is not only annoying to whoever is within earshot of you while you are sleeping but it can be a sign of a more serious health problem called obstructive sleep apnea.
Snoring is simply the sound that is produced during sleep by the soft tissues of the upper airway vibrating during sleep. This happens because the airway has become partially blocked – as we sleep the tissues in our mouth and throat relax and fall back blocking the airway. Snoring is common even in Beverly Hills. If you are over the age of 30 then almost 50% of men and 30% of women will snore. Simple snoring can sometimes be solved by avoiding certain sleeping positions. Most people snore more when sleeping on their back so forcing yourself to sleep on your side may fix the problem.
Mild snoring probably won’t cause any real health consequences but more severe snoring may increase the risk of narrowing of the blood vessels in the neck. A study showed that the more total sleep time spent snoring led to a higher risk of developing the narrowing. Researchers believe this happens because of the vibration damaging the carotid arteries.
Snoring can cause your bed partner (and in more serious cases those in adjoining rooms) to experience disturbed sleep. Disrupted sleep can lead to mood changes, increases in blood pressure and weight gain.
You don’t have to sleep in another room! An oral appliance from a dentist who is experienced in treating sleep breathing disorders can create a custom oral appliance that will stop the snoring. Not only will your bed partner feel better after a full night of sleep, you will be surprised how much more energy you will have following a quiet, restful night of sleep.
To find out more about oral appliances for snoring please contact Beverly Hills sleep apnea dentist Dr. David Frey at 310-276-4537 today to schedule your consultation.
