It is estimated that 40% of men and 24% of women snore habitually. While it can be a nuisance, it can be an indication of a much more serious sleep disorder.
Snoring is a noise which occurs when the tissues in the upper part of the breathing passages begin to vibrate during sleep. Snoring is a common occurrence that the sleeper is usually unaware of, but it can be bothersome to people sleeping nearby.
In some cases, however, snoring may be a sign of sleep apnea, which is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects as many as 1 out of 4 people over the age of 65.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder in which patients’ breathing will pause for short periods while they sleep. It is usually identifiable by listening for snoring followed by long periods of silence, and then breathing resuming with a choking sound or loud snort.
Not only does sleep apnea affect a patient’s ability to sleep properly, but the lack oxygen to the brain can result in heart attacks, stroke, or even death.
If you suspect that you or a loved one is suffering from sleep apnea, let the caring and experienced staff at Carolina Oaks Dental Care help you determine if you need a fitted snore guard to resolve this serious issue before it’s too late.
How Do Snore Guards Help Prevent Snoring?
Snore guards are similar to the mouth guards worn for sports, but instead of protecting teeth, gums and jaws, they prop the wearer’s jaw open during sleep.
Keeping the jaw in a forward position keeps their airways open, preventing snoring and sleep apnea. You can learn more about snore guards by visiting your trusted Greenville, SC dentist today.
Would I Benefit From a Snore Guard?
Most individuals who require a snore guard also suffer from sleep apnea. Here are some of the common symptoms to watch for:
- Are you unusually tired during the day?
- Do you suffer from recurring, prolonged headaches?
- Have you been told that you stop breathing when you’re asleep?
- Do you have high blood pressure, or does high blood pressure run in your family?
- Do you have a history of heart problems, or do heart problems run in your family?
- Do you wake up at night and feel like you’re choking?
- Do you experience dryness and soreness in your mouth?
- Are you more than 20 lbs. overweight?
If any of the above signs sound familiar, contact your trusted dental professionals in Greenville, SC today and learn more about how a snore guard may keep you safe, and provide a more restful, enjoyable sleep.