Snoring can be more than just an annoying sound at night. For the person snoring, it can sometimes be a sign that their airway is becoming partially blocked during sleep. For their partner, it can mean disrupted sleep and restless nights.

The good news is that snoring can often be treated, and in suitable cases, a dental appliance may help.

At Strand on the Green Dental, we offer the Sleepwell customised device, designed to help keep the airway open while you sleep.

Why do we snore?

Snoring happens when air cannot move freely through the nose and throat during sleep.

As we fall asleep, the muscles in the tongue, throat and soft palate naturally relax. If the airway becomes narrowed, the surrounding soft tissues can vibrate as air passes through. This vibration creates the familiar sound of snoring.

There are several factors that can contribute to snoring, including:

The shape of your mouth and airway

Some people are naturally more prone to snoring because of the anatomy of their mouth and throat. A narrow airway, enlarged tonsils, a low or thick palate, or an enlarged uvula can all contribute.

Nasal congestion

A blocked or congested nose can make it more difficult to breathe through your nose while sleeping, increasing the likelihood of snoring.

Alcohol and sedatives

Alcohol and some sedative medications can cause the muscles in the throat to relax more than usual, potentially making snoring worse.

Weight

Being overweight can increase the amount of tissue around the neck and throat, which can contribute to narrowing of the airway.

Sleeping position

For some people, sleeping on their back can make snoring worse because the tongue and soft tissues can fall backwards and partially obstruct the airway.

Can snoring affect your oral health?

It can.

People who snore often breathe through their mouth while sleeping. This can cause dry mouth, as the continuous flow of air reduces moisture in the mouth.

Saliva plays an important role in maintaining a healthy mouth. It helps wash away food particles and bacteria, protects teeth and gums and helps maintain the natural balance of the oral environment.

A persistently dry mouth can therefore contribute to problems such as:

• Bad breath
• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Increased plaque build-up
• Mouth irritation and discomfort

So while snoring itself isn’t necessarily a dental problem, the mouth breathing that often accompanies it can have an impact on your oral health.

Could a dental appliance help with snoring?

For some people, yes.

A mandibular advancement device (MAD) is a type of oral appliance that is worn while sleeping. It gently holds the lower jaw in a forward position, which can help prevent the airway from becoming restricted.

At Strand on the Green Dental, we offer the Sleepwell customised device for suitable patients experiencing snoring.

Unlike a generic, over-the-counter mouthguard, a professionally fitted appliance is customised to your mouth. Your dentist can assess your teeth, gums, jaw and overall suitability before recommending treatment.

What about sleep apnoea?

It is important not to assume that snoring is simply an inconvenience.

Loud, regular snoring can sometimes be associated with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), a condition in which the airway repeatedly becomes blocked during sleep. Other symptoms can include pauses in breathing during sleep, gasping or choking sounds, excessive daytime tiredness and morning headaches.

If you or your partner notice these symptoms, it is important to speak to your GP or an appropriate healthcare professional for assessment. A dental appliance may be appropriate for some people with diagnosed sleep apnoea, but the right treatment depends on the individual and the severity of the condition.

Take the first step towards quieter nights

If snoring is affecting your sleep — or your partner’s — there may be a solution.

At Strand on the Green Dental, we can assess whether a customised Sleepwell device could be suitable for you and explain your treatment options.

Want to find out more?

Call Strand on the Green Dental on 020 8995 0298 to arrange an appointment.

A better night’s sleep could be closer than you think.