Understanding the Reason Behind Your Snoring
In addition to tossing and turning, snoring can make it difficult for you to get the quality sleep your body deserves. While just about everyone occasionally snores, persistent snoring can be a sign of a more serious issue like sleep apnea. In addition to relationship problems, sleep apnea can also put you at risk of severe issues like hypertension, diabetes, and depression.
Noisy nights can be a nuisance to your sleep. Read our guide to learn how our Wake Forest, NC sleep dentist Dr. Craig Winkelmann, can alleviate your snoring with alternatives to CPAP like oral appliance therapy to improve the quality of your sleep.
What Is Snoring?
Snoring occurs when your nose or mouth generates hoarse sounds due to a partially obscured airway. When air flows past relaxed tissues in your throat, this causes them to vibrate as you sleep. While it’s normal for snoring to occur every now and then, it can indicate a more serious health condition that may require treatment. The best way to know for sure is to undergo a sleep study to receive a proper diagnosis.
Risk Factors With Snoring
There are several factors that may increase your risk of snoring, such as:
- Gender
- Age
- Genetics
- Weight
- Narrow Airway
- Pregnancy
In addition to these factors, sleeping on your back may increase your susceptibility to snoring. It can be hard to pinpoint the exact cause of your snoring unless you undergo a sleep study and evaluation with our sleep dentist in Wake Forest, NC.
Our Snoring Solutions
Dr. Winkelmann will likely recommend the most appropriate form of oral appliance therapy based on the results of your sleep study. This will ensure you get the personalized care you deserve. Different types of oral appliances include:
- Tounge Retainer: Keeps your tongue in a neutral position to prevent airway blockage.
- Mandibular Appliance: Gently shifts your jaw forward to prevent the soft tissue surrounding the throat from collapsing.
- Hybrid Appliance: Addresses both airway blockage and collapse to improve your sleep.
When Should You Consult With Dr. Winkelmann
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Winkelmann if you find yourself snoring more than three nights a week, or if it’s affecting your relationship with your partner. Our Wake Forest, NC office offers CPAP alternatives to improve your sleep without having to deal with noisy or intrusive machines. During your consultation, you’ll discuss your symptoms with Dr. Winkelmann and undergo an examination to see if you would benefit from a sleep study.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can snoring give me a sore throat?
Waking up with a sore throat is one of the most common symptoms of snoring. You may also experience dry mouth and morning headaches due to this condition. If left untreated, snoring, as well as sleep apnea, can lead to further health complications such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more. Fortunately, a sleep study can properly diagnose your condition to determine the best course of treatment.
Are there any natural remedies for snoring?
There are certain lifestyle changes that can help manage your snoring. Most sleep specialists recommend losing weight, exercising regularly, limiting your alcohol consumption, and not using tobacco altogether. When coupled with professional treatment, these holistic sleep apnea remedies can make a significant impact on the quality of your sleep.
Does insurance cover oral appliance therapy?
Most medical insurance companies cover a portion or all of your oral appliance therapy, but some may not. It’s recommended that you contact your provider to get a better understanding of your coverage. Your sleep specialist or one of their staff members may also reach out to them on your behalf to ensure you receive your maximum benefits.
How much does an oral appliance cost?
The cost of your oral appliance varies from patient to patient and depends on factors including your medical history, treatment goals, the severity of symptoms, and more. For a more accurate cost estimate, reach out to a sleep specialist and schedule an initial evaluation. They’ll be able to have you undergo a sleep study and create a customized treatment plan.
Discover Our Snoring Solutions With Dr. Winkelmann
If you or your sleeping partner are tired of losing sleep due to chronic snoring, our sleep specialist, Dr. Craig Winkelmann is here to help. We understand how crucial quality sleep is. Our team can put you and your symptoms to rest with our oral appliance therapy.
Contact our Wake Forest, NC office by calling (984) 237-1013 or by filling out our online contact form to schedule your appointment today. We also treat patients in Riverstone, Staffordshire, and Brooke Hollow, NC.