Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

It is estimated that 1 in every 10 adults snores. For most people snoring has no serious medical complications. However, for an estimated 1 in 100 snorers, habitual snoring is the first indication of a potential life threatening disorder called "Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)".

Snoring is the result of a partial airway collapse. As pressure to breathe builds, muscles of the diaphragm, chest wall, and heart must work harder. The greater the effort, the more the airway walls collapse as the sleeper struggles to breathe.

Allergies, weight, anatomy, and alcohol usage are all contributing factors to "snoring" severity and frequency.

Mandibular repositioning appliances (snoreguard), which gently hold the mandibular forward during sleep, help keep the airway open and can result in a decrease or elimination of snoring.

The result can help patients with a more refreshed sleep, which in turn attributes to an improved lifestyle.

Bruxism (teeth grinding) and habitual clenching of teeth are all too frequent damaging habits in our modern, stress-filled world. Often occurring during the deepest levels of sleep, patients can place over 300 lbs of pressure on their teeth and jaw joints.

Results of this can be: headaches, broken or cracked teeth, severe and irreversible wear of the teeth, and broken crowns and bridges. In addition, abnormal pressure on the TMJ can lead to Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders, generalized sensitivity of the teeth and early bone loss.

Customized Dual-Flex nightguards provide some relief and offer protection to the teeth until the underlying causes can be addressed.