Snoring Treatment Devices
Chronic snoring is more than a nuisance. It disrupts the sleep quality of both the person snoring and their partner, and it can be an indicator of underlying airway obstruction. Snoring occurs when the tissues at the back of the throat relax during sleep and vibrate as air passes through a narrowed airway. While not all snoring indicates sleep apnea, persistent, loud snoring should be evaluated to rule out more serious conditions. For patients whose snoring is primary (not associated with apnea), a custom snoring treatment device can provide significant relief.
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, snoring treatment devices are custom fabricated to fit each patient's mouth and bite precisely. The device works by advancing the lower jaw slightly forward during sleep, which tightens the soft tissues at the back of the throat and opens the airway. This reduces or eliminates the vibration that produces the snoring sound. Because the device is custom made, it is more comfortable, more effective, and better tolerated than generic anti-snoring products available over the counter.
Before prescribing a snoring device, the dental team evaluates the patient to determine whether the snoring may be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea. A sleep screening can help identify patients who should undergo formal sleep testing before treatment. For patients diagnosed with sleep apnea, oral appliance therapy is the appropriate dental treatment rather than a simple snoring device. For those whose snoring is confirmed as primary, a snoring device offers a straightforward, effective solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a snoring device different from a sleep apnea appliance?
Both devices advance the lower jaw to open the airway, but a sleep apnea appliance (oral appliance therapy) is a medical device prescribed to treat a diagnosed condition, with efficacy confirmed through follow-up sleep testing. A snoring device addresses the symptom of snoring in patients who do not have sleep apnea. The dental team determines which device is appropriate based on the patient's diagnosis.
Will a snoring device stop my snoring completely?
Most patients experience a significant reduction in snoring, and many see it eliminated entirely. Results depend on the cause and severity of the snoring, the patient's anatomy, and consistent nightly use. The device is adjusted to find the optimal position for each individual.
Is the device comfortable to sleep with?
Custom snoring devices are designed for comfort and typically require only a brief adjustment period. Because they are made from precise impressions of the patient's teeth, they fit securely without being bulky. Most patients adapt within a few nights.
Do I need a prescription or referral for a snoring device?
A prescription is not typically required for a primary snoring device, but the dental team may recommend a sleep screening or study to rule out sleep apnea before proceeding. This ensures the patient receives the correct treatment for their condition.
