What is Snoring?
Approximately 45% of the population snores. Snoring is a noise which is made by individuals during sleep. An obstruction or partial closure of the airway causes this sound. This can lead to sleep disturbance for the individual involved and their partners or house mates (Young et al 2003). Those who snore very loud can have relationship issues, sleepiness during the day, stress and depression.
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a severe condition in which snoring is a part of. This can be potentially Life Threatening.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea is where there complete (apnoea) or partial (hypnoea) obstruction of the airway. This is repeated throughout the sleep and lasts 10 seconds or more. Extreme daytime tiredness, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure are some of the complications which arise from OSA.
Who Does Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Affect Most?
OSA is most prevalent in middle aged individuals. 4% of males and 2 % of females are known to suffer from OSA. It is important to seek medical help and advice as soon as you realise you could be suffering from OSA. Your dentist may be able to help.
How Can Your Dentist Help With Obstructive Sleep Apnoea and Snoring?
There are some simple lifestyle changes which can help with snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea. These include regular exercise, weight loss, diet changes, sleep position changes, hydration with water and reduced alcohol consumption. The above mentioned will help to improve health and reduce snoring but your dentist can help further with a mandibular advancement splint (MAS). A common Mandibular Advancement Splint is known as a Sleepwell® Appliance available through your dentist from S4S Dental Lab. The Sleepwell® appliance is made and produced by S4S Dental Lab in Sheffield.
To find out more about the Sleepwell® Appliance please click here.
For more information and consultation booking please contact the clinic and book in with Dr Parminder Battu. This can be done via telephone 01708446447 or email at hello@vivadentalstudio.co.uk.
We cater for the general population looking for a general and cosmetic dentist in and around Essex and London. We are based in Hornchurch.