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Snoring is a warning sign that breathing is not happening. One out of every two Americans snore and it can become more serious as progression leads to obstructive sleep apnea - (a frequent cessation of breathing during sleep). When a sleep apnea sufferer stops breathing for at least 10 seconds up to 30 times or more a night, the snoring has become sleep apnea.
Sometimes this condition can be life threatening, so it is important that you be screened by Dr. Schneider, who is a trained sleep dentist. Dr. Schneider may refer you to your physician for a sleep study, known as a polysomnogram which evaluates the airway and breathing patterns. This test guides the physician and Dr. Schneider to the correct conservative treatment.
Causes:
Some of the conditions that can lead to snoring include:
Overweight
A small retruded jaw
Sedatives
Allergies
Alcohol before retiring
Airway obstruction
Sleep posture
Diagnostics
Sleep patients are throughly examined, including a TMJ exam since both disorders are common. A thorough history is taken as well a a sleep questionnaire. You are also checked for other symptoms of sleep apnea like morning headaches, dry mouth and throat, excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden short-of-breath awakenings, choking or gasping and any lost interest in sex. Testing may include:
Intra-oral habit assessment
evaluating periodontal health
x-rays and diagnostic models
occlusal exam
checking gag reflex
tonsil exam
orthopedic exam
Treatment
Once a sleep study confirms that sleep apnea is present, then, with a high degree of accuracy, Dr. Schneider uses the proper treatment procedures that are indicated. For simple non-threatening snoring, we use an anti-snoring, intra-oral device (splint/sleep appliance) to control the problem. If, however, it is determined that the patient is suffering from a mild to moderate condition of obstructive sleep apnea, further analysis of the bite is needed. This treatment employs a highly specific type of intra-oral appliance. These appliances have been proven to be effective in controlling this problem.
The oral appliance approach is a conservative treatment to traditional treatment of CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure with the use of an air compressor and mask) and surgery. Appliances are light and easy to wear. Its purpose is to move the lower jaw forward, causing a positive change in tongue position that opens the airway. Worn during sleep, it helps prevent the airway from collapsing by creating extra airway space. We are able to conservatively and successfully treat those suffering with snoring or sleep apnea in most cases. When poor sleep interferes with your daily activities of reading, watching television, driving, or operating equipment, discuss it with Dr. Schneider.
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