Sleep Apnea and Snoring Relief

Snoring and sleep apnea are not the same condition.

Snoring is simply the sound that occurs when soft tissues in the mouth and throat vibrate as a person breathes.

Sleep apnea involves complete airway blockage for periods of 10 seconds or longer repeatedly during a sleep session. While snoring is not dangerous, sleep apnea increases a person’s risk for stroke, heart attack, daytime fatigue, irritability, and other issues.

How we can help: Sleep apnea should be diagnosed by a sleep lab – your primary physician can recommend a reputable facility.
Traditionally, a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) appliance is the gold standard for sleep apnea treatment. However, many patients do not respond well to CPAP because of a poor fit, claustrophobia or discomfort.

For these patients, and others, a sleep guard may be recommended. Your dentist can create a custom sleep guard to hold your lower jaw slightly forward, which prevents soft tissues from blocking airflow. Many patients find relief from this non-invasive solution. Your dentist may refer you to another clinician to make this appliance if needed.

Franco & Associates Family and Cosmetic Dentistry have the experience and dental materials necessary to perform cosmetic dental procedures in our office in St. Paul. For more information please call to schedule an appointment.