Do you snore or sleep within earshot of someone who does? We often think of snoring as simply an annoyance that makes it hard for others to sleep soundly. However, snoring is frequently a symptom of a serious health issue called sleep apnea. At South Natick Dental, we effectively address snoring and sleep apnea non-surgically, helping you enjoy a healthy, restorative night’s sleep.

If you suspect you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, please contact South Natick Dental today by completing the form on this page or calling 508-691-9466. We serve patients throughout Massachusetts, including Natick, Wellesley, Dover, Sherborn, and neighboring communities.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

The symptoms of sleep apnea are characterized by repeated breathing lapses for up to ten seconds at a time, although lapses can last for much longer for many patients. Common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Lapses in breathing during slumber
• Gasping for air during sleep
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loud snoring
• Awakening with a dry mouth
• Morning headache
• Excessive daytime drowsiness
• Difficulty paying attention while awake
• Irritability

What Causes Snoring?

Snoring occurs when air passes through the tissues of your pharynx and throat, making vibrations. As you get older, these tissues gradually droop and begin to obstruct your airway. This makes your snoring even louder. Snoring is typically the result of:

• Excess weight
• Enlarged uvula
• Drooping pharyngeal tissue

A medical condition related to snoring, sleep apnea causes multiple and extended lapses of breathing and can be deadly if not diagnosed and effectively treated. The first step to identifying this dangerous condition is to meet personally with Dr. Novak to discuss your snoring.

Effects of Snoring

Snoring doesn’t just affect those around you during sleeping hours, it impacts you and your well-being. When you snore, the deep sleep you need to recuperate every night is interrupted, even if it doesn’t completely wake you up. When you do finally wake up in the morning, you may feel even more tired than when you fell asleep the night before. Snoring can exacerbate a number of other health issues, such as:

• Heart disease
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• High blood pressure

Even when your airway is slightly obstructed, your heart has to work that much harder to oxygenate your brain and other vital tissues.

Treating Snoring with Snore Guards

The position of your neck and head significantly affects your potential for snoring. You are more prone to snoring when you lay on your back than when you lay on your stomach or side. Depending on the severity of your condition, your treatment may include a custom-fitted night guard.

The mouth guard comprises both lower and upper appliances that work in tandem to keep your lower jaw forward, helping to maintain an unobstructed airway during slumber. Snore guards allow you to breathe easy during sleep and enjoy a restful night.

Contact South Natick Dental Today

To find out more about how you can treat snoring problems, please contact South Natick Dental by completing the form on this page or calling 508-691-9466 today. We welcome patients from Natick, Wellesley, Dover, Sherborn, and neighboring communities in Massachusetts.