
Snoring – The Causes & Effects on Oral & Overall Health
Snoring is not normal, and often indicates a problem in the airway. While some people snore lightly, others might do it occasionally. Usually, this is unconcerning especially if it does not happen all the time. But for others, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying sleep-related breathing disorder (sleep apnea).
Snoring
While it may seem like a minor annoyance, it can actually have serious health consequences if left untreated. Health issues can range from high blood pressure to heart disease, and stroke. It can also cause a variety of dental issues like dry mouth, bad breath, and tooth decay. It can also be distressing to the person sharing the room with the snorer. This can cause stress as well as sleepless nights for both people involved. Here we cover the basics, including what causes it, the effects on oral and overall health, and treatments to stop snoring.
What is Snoring?
Snoring is breathing with a loud, raspy sound while asleep. While there are many underlying causes, it occurs when the airway narrows in the throat. As air passes through this narrowed airway, it causes the soft tissues to vibrate, producing the sound we hear.
Quick Facts:
- Snoring is common
- People may not be aware they do it
- It may keep others awake
- Snoring can cause poor sleep
- And sleepiness during the day
- Avoid alcohol before bedtime
Laser treatment is usually the best way to treat snoring…
The Link Between Snoring & Overall Health
Snoring has a number of consequences that can impact your life. In fact, studies have shown a link between it and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. For this reason, it’s important to seek treatment.
What Causes Snoring?
During sleep, the muscles in the throat loosen (which narrows the airway). As the person breathes in and out, it causes the soft tissues to vibrate and make noise. Snoring can be a symptom of sleep apnea but not everyone who does it has sleeping disorder. Sleep apnea is when your breathing stops or slows down for a short time and then starts again.
Factors that can contribute to it, include age, weight, alcohol consumption, sleep position, and allergies.
For example, as you age, the muscles in your throat and tongue become weaker. This makes them more likely to vibrate during sleep. You are also more likely to snore if you are over weight.
Other Causes:
- Large tonsils, soft palate, or tongue
- Deviated septum
- Jaw that is too small or set back
- Nasal congestion
- Sedative medications
Effects of Snoring on Oral Health
Certain dental problems, such as misaligned teeth or jaw positioning, can contribute to snoring and sleep apnea. Additionally, snoring and sleep apnea can lead to dental problems, such as dry mouth and tooth grinding. While mild or occasional snoring usually is not a cause for concern, chronic snoring increases your risk of health issues.
The good news is, there are several treatment options.
Treatments for Snoring
There are several things you can do on your own, and there are also a variety of treatments available. The list below is general. While it can help some people reduce primary snoring, others might need to seek other treatment options (see below).
General Measures to Reduce Snoring:
- Lose weight
- Sleep on your side
- Elevate your head during sleep
- Avoid alcohol before bed
- Use a decongestant for nasal congestion
The Importance of Seeking Treatment
You can expect tiredness, morning headaches, dry mouth, and even relationship difficulties if you snore. But it’s more than just an annoying noise. It can actually be an indication that your airway is not open properly while you are sleeping. In addition, it can be a symptom of a more serious condition called sleep apnea. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead more serious consequences such as stroke, or even a heart attack. Thankfully, those who suffer from it can turn to us for treatment.