Chronic snoring can disrupt the sleep of family members and cause great tension. Snoring may also be a symptom of sleep apnea, a serious disorder that occurs when breathing is interrupted during sleep. When left untreated sleep apnea causes abnormal daytime sleepiness, and can also lead to high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, irregular heartbeats and heart attacks.
Now your dentist offers highly effective, yet simple solutions for problem snoring. It starts with a one-on-one discussion about your overall health, sleep habits, and specific symptoms. Next, your dentist will use a diagnostic device called a Pharyngometer (also called a Rhinometer), which uses sonar technology to measure and assess the opening of your airways. With this information, your dentist can pinpoint the source of your sleep apnea and/or chronic snoring.
Once a proper diagnosis is made, the solution to your problem is often surprisingly simple. Your dentist may recommend a custom-molded and fitted orthotic mouthpiece that will keep your airways open while you sleep. As a result, you’ll enjoy better sleep and better overall health.
