Treatments

Snoring

Snoring is a common problem that almost everyone will experience at some point in their life. However, chronic snoring can be more of a serious condition for both the snorer and anyone they share a bed or bedroom with.

There are multiple factors that cause snoring, but in simple terms it is caused by obstruction of the airway. Sleeping position, being overweight, a blocked or stuffy nose due to a cold or allergies, small or collapsing nostrils, and lifestyle factors including smoking, alcohol consumption and the use of sleeping pills can all be contributory factors to snoring.

Sleep apnoea is a severe form of snoring that affects about 4% of the population. With this condition the airway is completely obstructed during sleep, causing sufferers to stop breathing for short periods. Your body's natural reaction to this is to wake you up, meaning those with sleep apnoea wake up several times a night and leading to tiredness and irritability in the morning.

We would always recommend that sleep apnoea patients visit a sleep clinic in the first instance. What many people don't realise, however, is that for snoring dentists are often able to provide a solution, leading to a better night's sleep and improved overall health.

At Amsel & Wilkins our dentist John Adams has a special interest in snoring treatment. For moderate to heavy snorers, devices called mandibular advancement appliances can be beneficial. They are worn in the mouth at night, holding the lower jaw in a forward position to keep the airway open during sleep and prevent or reduce snoring. These devices are custom-made to fit your mouth and are full adjustable.

Some cases of sleep apnoea can also be treated with mandibular advancement appliances, although you should seek advice from a sleep clinic first to see if treatment with an appliance is the best option, or if lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking, losing weight or drinking less alcohol is more appropriate.

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