Perhaps you have awakened to find yourself short of breath or feeling as though your airway is blocked.  Maybe your significant other has witnessed your breathing stop momentarily while you’re asleep.  No matter how you’ve discovered this occurrence, it’s important to recognize that this could be a serious health concern, and you are not alone.

Snoring is caused by a narrowed airway space.  When you drift off to sleep the soft palate, throat and tongue naturally relax, which can partially block your airway, thus creating a vibration.  On average, forty-five percent of adults snore occasionally, while twenty-five percent snore regularly.  Aside from being exhausted all the time, snoring can also affect your blood pressure, driving skills and workload throughout the day.

Dentistry Can Help

So you’re probably wondering “What does my dentist have to do with snoring?”  Here’s the connection: Snoring can sometimes be treated with an oral appliance available at your dental office.

An oral appliance is one option to help keep your airway open at night.  By repositioning the lower jaw forward during sleep, the appliance gives the tongue and any extra soft tissue in the upper throat more room.  By creating this extra space; the obstruction in the airway is gone, and you can breathe easily without interruption or waking up during your sleep.  Also, you can say “so long” to snoring.

If you or a loved one is experiencing any combination of these signs and symptoms we can help with your snoring.  Set up your consultation with Dr. Connell today.  You can contact us at 770-623-8877 today!