Snoring
Snoring is a common issue that affects both the person snoring and those around them. While occasional snoring may not be a concern, frequent or loud snoring can indicate an underlying problem, such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
Common Problems
What Causes Snoring?
The best solution depends on the cause of your snoring and whether it is linked to obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
- Nasal Congestion – Blocked nasal passages from colds, allergies, or sinus issues can make breathing harder, increasing the likelihood of snoring.
- Mouth & Throat Anatomy – A thick soft palate, enlarged tonsils, or a long uvula can restrict airflow.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) – A condition where the airway repeatedly becomes blocked, causing breathing to stop and restart multiple times during sleep.
- Sleeping Position – Lying on your back allows the tongue and soft tissues to collapse towards the throat, partially blocking airflow.
- Obesity – Extra weight, particularly around the neck, can put pressure on the airway.
- Alcohol & Sedatives – These relax the muscles in the throat, making airway collapse more likely.
How to Stop Snoring?
Our team will assess your symptoms and recommend the most effective treatment based on your situation.
- Custom-Fitted Oral Appliances – Mandibular advancement splints (MAS) help reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open, reducing snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnoea symptoms.
- Lifestyle Adjustments – Weight loss, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol before bed can help reduce airway obstruction.
- Positional Therapy – Sleeping on your side rather than your back can prevent the tongue and soft tissues from collapsing into the throat.
- Nasal Congestion Treatment – If allergies or sinus issues contribute to snoring, nasal sprays, antihistamines, or saline rinses may help.
- Referral for Sleep Apnoea Testing – If sleep apnoea is suspected, we can refer you for a sleep study to assess the severity of the condition and determine if further intervention is needed.
How Snoring Affects Your Health
Snoring isn’t just a nighttime disturbance—it can have serious effects on your overall health and wellbeing.
- Daytime Fatigue & Poor Concentration – Interrupted sleep prevents deep, restorative rest, leading to tiredness, difficulty focusing, and reduced productivity.
- Irritability & Mood Changes – Poor sleep quality can impact emotional wellbeing, causing mood swings and increased stress.
- Increased Risk of Health Issues – Snoring, particularly when linked to obstructive sleep apnoea, has been associated with high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
- Disrupted Sleep for Others – Loud snoring can disturb partners and family members, affecting their sleep quality and leading to frustration.
- Potential Indicator of Sleep Apnoea – In some cases, snoring is a symptom of sleep apnoea, a condition that causes breathing pauses and oxygen deprivation during sleep.
Contact Us for Your Snoring Concerns
If snoring is affecting your sleep or overall health, Knight Street Dentists can help. Our team provides professional assessments and custom oral appliances designed to improve airflow and reduce snoring. We take the time to understand your symptoms and recommend effective solutions fitted for you.
Take the first step towards better sleep and improved well-being by reaching out to our team today.
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