Sleep apnea and snoring are related. Both conditions restrict the flow of air in the back of the mouth. People who snore have restrictions in their airways that cause the tissues to act like instrument reeds. The noise from snoring comes from the vibration of the tissues in the throat much like a reed instrument. In a normal person, the tissues in the throat should be open and easily allow air to flow in and out of the lungs.

       Sleep apnea and snoring are often seen in the same patients. Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea have numerous episodes where the tongue falls backward into the throat and completely blocks the airway. Unlike snoring, the obstruction caused by Obstructive Sleep Apnea can be dangerous and life threatening. There are many related signs and symptoms including depression, morning headaches, excessive tiredness and sudden sleep apnea death.

      When a patient has both Sleep apnea and snoring, if only the snoring is treated, the patient can later suffer serious consequences. Sleep apnea is a serious disorder and should be treated. Snoring annoys bed partners but is usually harmless and is often easily treated. The soft palate is often the tissue that vibrates in snorers. Simple dental appliances can help prevent this. The tongue can also vibrate and there are also other appliance that can help here.

              The dentists of the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients good health and well being. You are welcome to join their family of patients. Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky is a sleep apnea dentist who has been treating patients since 1982. Although there is no simple and universal sleep apnea and snoring cure, Dr. Padolsky is passionate about helping every one of his patients and will do his best to assist you in controlling your disorder. If you would like to schedule a consultation with him, call 404-874-7428 to make your appointment.