There are different causes of snoring. Anything that narrows the airway can cause it. The patient does not breath well and has blockage somewhere in the airway. The patient wakes up tired and can stay tired for most of the day. The rest of the patient's family often suffers from fatigue when the noise is loud. It can often be treated using dental appliances that hold the soft palate in place or pull the tongue and lower jaw forward. The treatment is reversible unlike many surgical treatments. It makes good sense to see a dentist before agreeing to surgery.

          Snoring patients can not breath easily though their noses. They frequently have nasal blockage from nasal allergies or the inside of the nose is not shaped correctly. This prevents good airflow and vibration of the tissues.The tongue may fall back into the airway, narrowing the airway and causing blockage. Bad airflow causes the tissues in the oral region to vibrate like a musical instrument, especially the soft palate.

          Things that make snoring worse are: overweight, lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol, acid reflux, poor health, age and hormone imbalances. They often cause congestion of the throat tissues which leads to swelling of fluids within the tissues. The congestion causes loss of muscle tone and makes the tissues lining the airway flop around. Some patients stop breathing during the night. It's called sleep apnea and is serious. A patient with sleep apnea has less oxygen in the blood than normal.

          The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. Dr. Padolsky is experienced in treating TMJ, sleep apnea and related problems. If you are having difficulties with snoring and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, make an appointment at 404-874-7428.