Snoring can be a sign that a person has obstructive sleep apnea or OSA. Obstructive sleep apnea is a physical condition caused by decreased or stopped airflow to the lungs while you are asleep. In the United States, it is estimated that over 38,000 people die each year from the effects of obstructive sleep apnea.

Some of the contributing factors of being diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea are:

–       A Body Mass Index (BMI) over 30

–       A neck size of 17 inches or greater

–       Obesity

–       History of snoring

Some of the signs that you may have obstructive sleep apnea are:

–       You snore during sleep

–       When you wake up you do not feel refreshed

–       You feel sleepy or fatigued during the day

–       You wake up with a headache

–       Your bed partner reporting that you stop breathing or gasp for air

The gold standard to treat obstructive sleep apnea is the use of a CPAP machine. CPAP is a device applied on top of the nose or in the nostrils that provides Continuous Positive Airway Pressure while breathing. Surgery may also be used to remove some soft tissues in the back of the mouth and throat.

However, if you have a mild obstructive sleep apnea, a dentist may be able to fit you with a dental appliance that can address your sleep apnea and may stop your snoring. There are many types of devices which generally advance your lower jaw forward keeping the airway in your throat open.

Virginia Beach dentist, Dr. Carol F. Morgan, DDS, had specific training in obstructive sleep apnea. She also has extensive education, training and experience in the different types of dental appliances available to treat mild obstructive sleep apnea. Your bed partner will be will be happy you got your snoring checked out.