Snoring can be a very irritating problem that can put a strain on relationships. However, snoring can be a sign of the much more serious malady called sleep apnea. Not all snorers have sleep apnea, therefore, it is important to have the condition checked by a physician to be certain that it is not a serious problem. Even if sleep apnea is not present, snoring can be very annoying, even going so far as causing marital problems. Sufferers have even woken themselves up during a deep sleep due to their snoring. There are some solutions available that can be done without the need of a professional: lose weight, change to a different sleep position, and avoid things like alcohol, sedatives, or caffeine before bedtime. There are some surgical solutions that can help. Radio frequency waves can be used to shrink the tissue of the soft palate or a laser-assisted uvuloplasty can be done to remove the uvula. It has been found that holding the mandible (lower jaw) forward during sleep can help some people to stop snoring.

Appliance to Hold Mandible (lower jaw) Forward

In our office, we can construct an anti-snoring appliance, but only after a patient has been checked by a physician to rule out sleep apnea.