While snoring is a common problem, it can also signify other major health complications. One common cause of snoring is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea affects not only the quality of sleep of the person snoring but also the quality of sleep of their loved ones and other family members. Obstructive Sleep Apnea, also known as OSA, is a common sleep disorder affecting millions of people, though most don’t even know they suffer. At Boulder Dental Designs, we offer apnea appliances and different ways to treat sleep apnea and chronic snoring.

Fortunately, catching and treating OSA early can make all the difference in improving your overall quality of life! It’s important to talk with Dr. John Montoya or Dr. Pearl Lai if you feel you may be at risk. They can help identify any potential underlying signs or symptoms and provide recommendations on lifestyle changes or treatment if necessary.

Sleep Apnea Can Cause Snoring

Sleep apnea and snoring can be the result of several factors. Typically, snoring is caused by the relaxing of the muscles and soft tissues in the throat and mouth, making the air passage smaller. The decrease in space through the airway makes it harder for each breath to get through, and when it does get through, it moves over the soft tissues in the mouth and throat and causes a vibration that results in the snoring sound. Other causes of snoring may include:

Excess body weight: Excess body weight can cause sleep apnea by narrowing the airway.

Mouth and nose shape: A deviated septum, enlarged adenoids, a small chin or jawbone, and other structural abnormalities can make sleep apnea more likely.

Alcohol consumption: Consuming alcohol can relax the muscles in the throat and cause sleep apnea.

Sleep position: People who sleep on their backs may be more likely to snore.

Certain sleep aides or sedatives: Taking sleep aides or sedatives can relax the airway more than usual, increasing the chances of sleep apnea. 

Sleep Apnea Can Cause More Than Just Snoring

If left untreated, OSA can put you at risk for many health issues, such as an increased chance of heart attack and stroke, trouble with concentration and memory, and high blood pressure. That’s why it’s important to seek treatment if you think you may suffer from sleep apnea.

What is a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD)?

If you snore at night, then a mandibular advancement device (MAD) may represent a solution and a better night’s sleep! The MAD is a specially designed dental device that gently helps keep the lower jaw, or mandible, in a forward position, increasing the space between the airway passage and helping you breathe better so you can get a full, quiet night’s sleep.

Some devices also stop the tongue from falling back over your windpipe. Your dentist will fit these special appliances to meet your condition.

Is a MAD Comfortable?

The answer is simple — YES! A mandibular advancement device is made to be comfortable so that you can sleep without even noticing you’re wearing it. It does not prevent you from breathing with your mouth open and will even eliminate snoring for patients with sinus congestion or allergies. You may experience slight stiffness in the jaw for the first few mornings after wearing the device, but this feeling is only temporary and will go away after you wake up and remove the device.

Quality Sleep Apnea Appliances in Boulder, Colorado

Sleep apnea occurs when breathing pauses or becomes shallow during sleep due to an obstruction in the airway. If you are experiencing sleep apnea or snoring, talk to us about treatment options.

To look into a mandibular advancement device, sleep apnea appliance, or various treatments for sleep apnea and chronic snoring, come to Boulder Dental Designs. We offer more than just treatment for your teeth and gums. We offer relief for your rest so that you stay in excellent health and can be awake and alert enough to take on the day! Please schedule a consultation with our team today. Our services include family dentistry and preventative dentistry in Boulder, Colorado.