Snoring Prevention
Snoring can be a common problem for many people. It is estimated that more than 80 million people in North America snore while sleeping. Snoring not only affects the quality of sleep for the person who snores but the family that surrounds them as well. Luckily, there is a way to treat chronic snoring.
What causes snoring?
Snoring can be the result of several factors but is most commonly caused by the relaxing of the muscles and soft tissues in the throat and mouth, making the airway passage smaller. The decrease in space makes breathing slightly more difficult, and when air does get through the airway passage, it moves over the soft tissues in the mouth and throat causing a vibration that results in the snoring sound.
Other causes of snoring may include:
- Excess body weight
- Alcohol consumption
- Certain sleep aides or sedatives
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
What is a Mandibular Advancement Device?
Mandibular advancement devices (MAD) may represent a solution to a patients snoring problem. The MAD is a specially designed dental device to be worn at night. It gently helps keep the lower jaw, or mandible, in a forward position, increasing the space between the airway passages. This allows you to breathe properly and should equate to a full nights sleep.
MAD’s are small plastic devices worn in the mouth while an individual is sleeping. The MAD helps prevent the soft throat tissues from collapsing and obstructing the airway. This is done by bringing your lower jaw forward which assists in lifting your soft palate. Dr. Cynthia Skiba will fit these special appliances to meet your individual condition.
Is a MAD comfortable?
MAD’s are made with your comfort in mind. They are constructed in such a way that you should not even notice you are wearing them, although for the first few mornings after use you may notice stiffness in your jaw. Your body should adjust after a week to the MAD’s addition to your life. MAD’s can be successful in eliminating snoring completely.
To learn more about a mandibular advancement device, contact our practice and schedule an appointment and consultation. A better night’s sleep starts here!