Snoring happens when the airway narrows or gets partially blocked during sleep. This usually occurs because the soft tissues in the back of the throat vibrate as they collide. Many adults snore occasionally, with chronic snoring affecting around 24% of women, 40% of men, and 10% of children. In kids, snoring can sometimes be linked to missing teeth, which changes the shape of the mouth’s tissues and can block airflow. Common reasons for snoring include:
- A naturally narrow airway
- Low, thick soft palate, an elongated uvula, or enlarged tonsils
- Sleeping position
- Excess weight or obesity
- Ongoing nasal congestion
- Alcohol and tobacco use
- Pregnancy
- Family history of snoring
Feeling tired or drained during the day is a common outcome of snoring. In severe cases, it might mean you’re not getting enough oxygen while you sleep. If you notice persistent fatigue or feel unwell, please contact our office without delay. Snoring often causes breathing through the mouth, which can dry it out and lead to bad breath, bacterial buildup, tooth decay, infections, or mouth sores.
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the upper airway is blocked during sleep. This forces the diaphragm and chest muscles to work harder to open the airway and draw air into the lungs. Breathing can become shallow or pause completely, only to resume with a loud gasp, snort, or sudden movement. Sleep apnea can lower oxygen flow to vital organs and cause irregular heart rhythms. Since other health issues can show similar symptoms, we recommend discussing any concerns with us during your next dental visit. Watch for warning signs like:
- Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
- Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or depression
- Restless sleep
- Night sweats
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- High blood pressure
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Choking or drooling at night
- Bedwetting
- Attention or behavioral challenges at school or work
- Loud snoring
- Breathing that stops or pauses
- Unusual sleeping positions, like sleeping on hands and knees or with neck bent backward
- Frequent nighttime bathroom trips
Anti-Snoring Mouthpieces
Snoring is caused by resistance in the airway, especially when a flap at the back of the throat vibrates during sleep. Contrary to popular belief, snoring usually starts behind the tongue due to relaxed muscles shrinking the airway.
Sometimes snoring signals a more serious condition like sleep apnea, where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep. If your child snores and you suspect sleep apnea, there’s a good chance both issues are connected. To reduce snoring, special devices can help by moving the jaw forward and preventing throat tissues from vibrating. These mouthpieces open the airway and relax muscles. The most common options include:
- Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD): Two retainer-like pieces that hold the jaw forward to improve airflow.
- Tongue Stabilizing Device: Gently pulls the tongue forward to create space and reduce vibrations.
- Snoring Chin Strap: Wraps around the head to keep the mouth closed; less common due to discomfort and lower effectiveness.
Many parents want their children to stop snoring, but some devices are only suitable after the jaw finishes developing—usually around age 16. No matter your child’s age, if you suspect snoring or sleep apnea, please reach out to DDS Group for a trusted evaluation.
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