About Snoring

Snoring occurs when muscles and tissue in the back of the throat relax during deep sleep, restricting and narrowing the airway. Upon breathing in those tissues vibrate causing the aggravating sound known as snoring. 

While people often joke about loud snorers, it could be a sign of something more serious – obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It’s important to have a sleep study if you are a loud snorer, especially if you have waking episodes, sleep interruptions, or if you wake up gasping for air. Only a sleep study can tell you for sure if you have sleep apnea. 

Did you know according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, that roughly 30% to 50% of the US population snores at one time or another? The good news is that if your snoring is a sign of sleep apnea, there are several treatment options available which include oral devices which your sleep dentist can assist you with.