Snoring is extremely common, and occasional light snoring is at worst a minor annoyance. On the other hand, loud and habitual snoring can disrupt your sleep (and that of a loved one!) and may be a sign of a much more serious sleep disorder – obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Untreated OSA increases your risk for:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Depression
- Memory loss
- Morning headaches
- Irritability
- Decreased sex drive
- Impaired concentration
- Driving and work-related accidents
For those suffering with sleep apnea, there is no device that has proven itself more effective in medical studies than the CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. Although CPAP machines have been shown to be extremely effective in severe sleep apnea and chronic snoring cases, they are not without their drawbacks. Many people find wearing the mask cumbersome and uncomfortable. The plastic of the mask can chafe the skin, causing irritation and in some cases open sores. In addition, a CPAP machine is noisy during operation and can prevent the wearer and anyone within earshot from falling asleep. Consequently, over 50 percent of patients who use a CPAP machine discontinue use due to these drawbacks.
Fortunately, there is another option for sufferers of snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea – Oral Appliance Therapy. This therapy involves the selection, fitting and use of a specially designed oral appliance that maintains an open, unobstructed airway in the throat when worn during sleep. Unlike CPAP machines, oral appliances are small, comfortable and easy to wear. In fact, most people find it only takes a few weeks to become acclimated to wearing the appliance. They are also extremely convenient and easy to carry when traveling.
If you or a loved one suffer from snoring or OSA, or wear a CPAP machine, contact our office for more information on FDA approved oral sleep appliances which can give you a good night’s sleep without the discomfort of CPAP, surgery or medication. We are experts at selecting and fitting oral sleep appliances. You will be happy to know that in most cases, oral sleep appliances are covered by medical insurance.
"After 10 years of nightly snoring, my appliance gave me instant relief. Finally a good night's sleep!" – Ron Beaman
"After 43 years of loud, thunderous snoring, and restless sleep my husband finally got a good night's rest (and so did I!). It was kind of funny though, the first night he wore his appliance, I actually had trouble falling asleep because something was missing – it was way too quiet (ha ha)." – Molly Mitchell