Snoring is the sound of partially obstructed breathing during sleep. It happens when the tongue and soft tissues of the throat relax causing partial blockage of the airway. Besides causing an average of 49 minutes of loss of sleep to the snorer’s bed partner it can be the sign of a more serious medical condition known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This occurs when there is complete blockage of the airway several times throughout the night, preventing a person from not only getting the proper amount of sleep, but also the proper amount of oxygen. OSA has been linked to several health maladies including an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Its most common side effect is excessive daytime sleepiness, which also increases ones risk for being in a car accident.

Two common treatment options are the use of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), a machine that pushes oxygen through the crowded throat, preventing an interruption in breathing and an oral appliance. Although CPAP is effective, the patient compliance is low, due to the cumbersome nature of the machine. If a patient has only mild or moderate sleep apnea, they are a candidate for an oral appliance. An oral appliance is a simple device that is backed by solid research and is custom made for the patient to wear at night to stop the snoring and treat sleep apnea.

Oral Appliances are custom made by a certified laboratory and fit like an orthodontic retainer or sports mouth guard. These comfortable devices gently reposition the bottom jaw forward creating space in the crowded airway, allowing he patient to breath more easily. They are simple, durable and effective.