Snoring is not considered normal at any age and often indicates a narrowing of the upper airway or nasal passages. It can originate from both the nose and mouth and potentially progress to more serious conditions like sleep apnea, where breathing temporarily stops during sleep. There are two main types: central sleep apnea, which stems from neurological issues, and obstructive sleep apnea, which is more common and caused by physical airway blockages.
Several predisposing factors contribute to snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea. Narrow jaws and retrognathia (where the jaws are set too far back) are anatomical factors that increase the risk by compromising airway size or promoting tongue collapse into the airway, especially in cases of tongue tie, which restricts tongue movement.
In children, orofacial myofunctional pre-orthodontics is often the preferred treatment,focusing on correcting dysfunctional breathing patterns and promoting optimal jaw development. For adults, treatment options vary depending on individual cases and may involve oral devices or orofacial myofunctional therapy to improve airway function and reduce snoring.
Snoring and sleep apnea affect breathing and the nervous system, leading to chronic stress during sleep. This stress response can dysregulate the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s fight-or-flight response, and result in poor sleep quality.
Recognizable symptoms of snoring-related sleep issues include restless sleep, teeth grinding,bed-wetting, frequent nocturnal awakenings, night terrors, morning fatigue, and behavioral problems due to chronic tiredness.
Additional risk factors for snoring and sleep apnea include obesity, unhealthy dietary habits,excessive evening screen time, and airway inflammation. Addressing these factors through lifestyle changes and appropriate medical intervention can significantly improve sleep quality and overall health.
At Sovereign Dental, we specialize in evaluating and managing snoring and sleep apnea. We offer personalized treatment plans to address underlying causes and improve sleep outcomes.Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve better sleep and overall well-being.