Snoring is the sound of partially obstructed breathing during sleep. While snoring can be harmless, it can also be the sign of a more serious medical condition known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). When OSA occurs, the tongue and soft palate collapse onto the back of the throat and completely block the airway, which restricts the flow of oxygen. The louder and more frequent the snoring, the more likely it is to be problematic and require medical evaluation by a recognized expert.

Warning Signs Of OSA?

In Adults

• Excessively loud snoring that can be heard rooms away (or even by neighbors).
• A pattern of snoring interrupted by pauses, then gasps, is a sign that breathing stops and restarts. Occasionally, patients will remember waking up short of breath or gasping, although the vast majority of episodes are not recalled.
• Falling asleep at the wrong times, such as at work or while driving.
• Trouble concentrating, or becoming forgetful, irritable or anxious.

Oral Appliance Therapy

Oral Appliance Therapy involves the selection, fitting, and use of a specially designed oral appliance worn during sleep that maintains an opened unobstructed airway in the throat.

"SOME OSA PATIENTS ARE HELPED BY ORAL APPLIANCES, DEVICES THAT OPEN THE BREATHING PASSAGE BY BRINGING THE JAW OR TONGUE FORWARD OR RAISE THE SOFT PALATE."