The Effects of Snoring on Your Oral Health

If you suffer from snoring, it may be time to visit your local dentist in Etobicoke. Whether it is a regular sleep disruptor or happens once in a while, it is important to seek support to prevent complications.

What Is Snoring?

Snoring is caused by vibrations in the airway due to the throat’s soft tissues. As we sleep, these tissues relax and lose muscle tone causing a rattling or harsh breathing sound to be emitted.

Snoring is common but is not considered a normal condition if it is a consistent issue. It is a sign of airway restriction, which can lead to a variety of oral and medical problems. As the mouth tends to open when snoring, dry mouth can occur. This reduces the production of salvia. From this, tooth decay, bad breath, infections, gum disease, and mouth sores can occur.

What Are the Main Causes of Snoring?

Snoring can be caused by a number of environmental and internal factors. Cases where the soft palate is thick or in a low position prevents normal airflow, causing a vibration in the back of the throat. This is often common with people who suffer from obesity.

Nasal problems caused by common colds can also cause snoring episodes. Some people snore when their breathing is obstructed by laying on their back as this position narrows the airway, especially because the tongue then falls back which can block the airway.

What Are the Indications of Snoring?

How do you know if you snore? Aside from the obvious noise your partner or family member might hear and the fact that you might experience unrestful sleeps, there are a few other signs that indicate that you might snore based on the condition and health of the mouth and teeth.

When snoring is related to a lack of oxygen or reduced airflow, the brain signals the jaw to clench and/or grind the teeth. This can cause gum recession, cracked teeth and damage to the enamel of the teeth.

What Precautions Can You Take to Prevent Snoring?

There may be preventive lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your snoring such as,

• Use a body pillow to prevent you from rolling onto your back
• Use pillows to prop the upper body up during sleep to reduce any restrictions of airflow
• Follow a healthy diet to improve digestive issues that lead to snoring
• Avoid alcohol consumption and over-the-counter sedatives before bedtime
• Regular exercise can help improve breathing issues and maintain a healthy weight.

Available Treatments for Solutions for Snoring

If snoring is affecting your sleep or breathing capabilities, consider the dental services at Princeview Dental. There are customized oral appliances available to reposition the jaw to keep the airway open and clear that help alleviate this condition.

Visit Princeview Dental to Get Professional Dental Treatments for Snoring

For everyday and emergency dental care in Etobicoke, contact Princeview Dental Group! Our dental appliances can help reduce snoring episodes. Lead by a knowledgeable dentist, our office provides a friendly and judgment-free zone for everyone. Call us today at (416) 231-4562 to book an appointment.