Do You Snore?

If so, it may be linked to a sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).  Obstructive sleep apnea often remains undiagnosed simply because many people are not familiar with the symptoms, but it can be a life-threatening condition if left untreated.

What Causes Snoring?

Snoring is caused when the airway becomes blocked during sleep.  Sometimes the tongue relaxes and falls back towards the throat, blocking the flow of air.  As less air is able to pass through, you begin to snore (a result of the vibrations in your throat.

How is Snoring Related to Sleep Apnea?

For many people, snoring is simply a minor yet annoying problem that causes no permanent damage.  For the with sleep apnea, however, harm can occur as the body is repeatedly denied proper amounts of oxygen.  Typically, those with sleep apnea will snore loudly, punctuated by periods of ten seconds or more when the sufferer stops breathing completely.  The lack of oxygen rouses the person, who begins begins breathing, then resumes snoring, until they stop breathing again.  This senario is repeated as often as 60 to 70 times a night!

Obstructive Sleep Apnea often results in:

• fatigue
• sleepiness during the day or while driving
• concentration problems
• acid reflux or GERD

Obstructive Sleep Apnea has been correclated with:

• high blood pressure
• cadiovascular sickness
• type 2 diabetes
• stroke
• early mortality

How Can a Dentist Help?

Dr. Barry K. Freydberg, our dental sleep medicine expert, offers a non-invasive treatment to patients suffering from snoring and OSA with a convienient oral appliance.

A mandibular advancement splint, similar to an orthodontic retainer or an athlethic mouth guarg is worn during sleep.  The splint treats snoring and OSA by holding the lower jaw forward, moving the tongue forward, thereby preventing the soft tissues from collapsing and obstructing the airway.

To ensure that health issues are taken care of, Dr Freydberg works closely with physicians and sleep specialists in order to treat this very serious condition.

Have You Been Diagnosed with Sleep Apnea but CPAP Intolerant?

Though the CPAP machine works for some, a large number of patients are unable to tolerate CPAP and search for alternatives. 

Dr. Freydberg introduces these patients to oral appliance therapy and finds that the compliance is much higher.  His patients now enjoy sleeping without the hose, mask, and compressor of a CPAP.  Many who wear their CPAP comfortably still prefer an oral appliance for travel as well as enjoying the return of intimacy back into their bedrooms.

Back to Top