Short answer
Snoring happens when tissues in the throat vibrate as you breathe during sleep. Sleep apnea is a more serious condition in which breathing repeatedly pauses. A dentist can make a custom mouth appliance that holds the jaw forward to help keep the airway open, but sleep apnea must first be diagnosed by a doctor.
Snoring and sleep apnea: what is the difference?
Snoring is a noise made when air moves past relaxed tissues in the throat. It is common and is not always a sign of a health problem.
Obstructive sleep apnea is a medical condition in which the airway narrows or closes repeatedly during sleep, so breathing pauses. Signs can include loud snoring, gasping or choking at night, waking unrefreshed, morning headaches and daytime tiredness. Only a doctor can diagnose sleep apnea, usually after a sleep test.
How can a dental appliance help?
An oral appliance is a custom mouthpiece worn at night. Most designs gently hold the lower jaw slightly forward. This can help keep the airway more open, which may reduce snoring. For some people with sleep apnea, a doctor may recommend an oral appliance as one treatment option. Other treatments exist, and the right choice depends on the person and the type of sleep apnea.
When to see a doctor first
See a doctor if you snore loudly and also feel very tired in the day, if someone has seen you stop breathing in your sleep, or if you wake gasping. Your doctor can arrange testing. Do not rely on a mouth appliance alone if sleep apnea has not been assessed.
How a custom appliance is made
- Assessment. The dentist checks your teeth, gums and jaw joints. Some conditions mean an appliance is not suitable.
- Impressions or scans. These capture the shape of your teeth and bite.
- Making the appliance. It is made to fit your mouth.
- Fitting. The dentist adjusts it and shows you how to wear and clean it.
- Follow-up. You return so the dentist can check the fit and how it is working, and check your teeth and jaw for any changes.
What to expect when wearing one
- It can take some time to get used to the feel.
- Some people have jaw soreness, extra saliva or a dry mouth at first.
- Tell your dentist if your bite feels different or your jaw hurts. Adjustments can help.
Frequently asked questions
- Can a dentist help with snoring?
- A dentist can make a custom oral appliance that may reduce snoring for some people. Loud snoring with daytime tiredness should be checked by a doctor first.
- How does a snore guard work?
- Most hold the lower jaw slightly forward to keep the airway more open during sleep.
- Do I need a sleep test?
- If sleep apnea is suspected, yes. A doctor arranges and reads the test.
- Is a snore guard comfortable?
- It can take a few nights to adjust. A custom fit and adjustments help.
- Does insurance cover it?
- Coverage differs. Check with your insurer and ask the clinic.
Next step
To ask about a snoring appliance, read about the clinic's sleep apnea and snore guard service or book a visit. Wetaskiwin Smiles is at 3600 56 St Unit 101, Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 3T5. Call (780) 396-4040 or request an appointment online.