Causes and Prevention of Snoring

Portland, Lake Oswego and West Linn, Oregon

Loud, abrasive snoring may seem harmless and even slightly humorous to some. But it is a condition that carries with it many potential dangers, one of the worst being sleep apnea. And of course, for spouses or partners of people who snore, chances are they've been woken up more than once or maybe even sleep in a different room. Fortunately, this is a condition that can be treated. If you live in the Portland, Oregon area and would like to learn more, cosmetic dentist Dr. Sue Wendling can treat sleep apnea and snoring.

What causes snoring?

Essentially, every instance of snoring occurs due to a blocked airway. Most of the time this is due to the extreme relaxed state deep sleep provides. The person's tongue and throat tissue slide back into the throat and obstruct the throat's ability to breathe in and out. The snoring sound is created by the soft palate and uvula vibrating together. Air passes over these organs when the person exhales and inhales. The more violent and loud the snoring is, the chances that the cause is sleep apnea - a potentially fatal condition - increase.

Approximately 45% of the general population snores. Statistically, this equates to around 30% of people over 30 years of age. As people get older, the chances of snoring increase due to the body aging. Even children snore.

How to Reduce Snoring

Dentists and cosmetic dentists are your best source for learning more about your specific situation and finding the right solution. There are a variety of oral appliances that are custom-fit to an individual's mouth and jaw. They keep the loose mouth and throat tissue immobile while the person sleeps.

Besides these treatments, lifestyle changes may help to reduce snoring as well. Alcohol consumption, especially before bedtime, is a large contributor to snoring. It's best not to consume any alcohol three hours prior to bedtime. Smoking, not getting enough sleep, and a poor diet all contribute to snoring.

If you or a loved one snores and you would like to find relief, the experienced cosmetic dental team at the offices of Dr. Sue Wendling can help. Please contact Wendling Cosmetic and Reconstructive Dentistry today to schedule a visit.