Snoring can be defined as noise on inspiration (breathing in), which is produced by the vibration of soft tissue, due to a narrowness of the airway. The narrowness is often in the area of the soft palate.
The prevalence of snoring is common, affecting around 25% of adult males and 14% of females. Most of us snore from time to time with little cause for concern. However persistent and loud snoring can be a nuisance for partners and could even indicate the presence of a serious sleep disorder. Snoring can be a sign of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), this is when our airway becomes so narrow that we momentarily stop breathing, the body is then forced to wake it self so we may begin to breath again. Those suffering from OSA are often unaware of these night-time events; they may however exhibit symptoms that over time they have accepted as normal.
Excessive daytime tiredness may be the result of OSA; your dentist will screen for this condition and give you appropriate advice. Severe OSA is known to increase the incidence of Heart Disease and Stroke and should be treated.
Mandibular advancement or mandibular repositioning splints are oral devices used to posture the lower jaw forward. The objective is to open the narrow airway preventing soft tissue vibration and eliminating the snoring sound. Mandibular repositioning or mandibular advancement splints available at Pure Smiles are custom made from impressions of your mouth – this makes them more comfortable and effective than devices bought “off the shelf”. The mandibular advancement/mandibular repositioning splint is adjustable, allowing us to balance comfort with effective airway opening.
We must not overlook the fundamental importance of breathing, inhaling oxygen and expelling waste gases; this paramount to our physiological function. Speak to your dentist if you are concerned about snoring or sleep disorders.
At Pure Smiles we provide sleep disorder and snoring treatments for patients in Fulham, Chelsea, Putney, Kensington and other surrounding areas in West London and Central London. For further advice please call to arrange a consultation.