Treatment for Snoring
1. Is there a cure for snoring?
There is no drug or medical procedure that can guarantee to fully eliminate the symptomatic tendencies of snoring.
2. Is there some kind of surgery that works for Sleep Apnea patients?
Yes. The surgery consists of removal of the uvula and redundant tissue in the pharynx. It is successful in approximately 50% of people undergoing this procedure. Another kind of surgery is called a tracheostomy, where a breathing tube is implanted below the pharynx. Both procedures are quite painful and permanently disfigure the palatal throat area.
3. What about psychiatric treatment for snoring?
Many sleep clinics offer excellent treatment for various sleep disorders, such as insomnia and sleep walking, and snoring may be considered a contributing factor to sleep disorders in many cases. But snoring itself, is generally accepted as being caused by physical, rather than psychological factors.
4. Are there any devices that will prevent snoring?
There are many devices available which claim to stop snoring. These range all the way from clinical devices, such as nasal air masks, to gimmicks such as noise sensors which work like dog training collars and give the wearer a "gentle static pulse" at the sound of a snore. There are also special pillows that force your head back and devices that hold your tongue down. Some people have even sewn tennis balls to the back of their pyjamas, so they don't sleep on their back.
5. Do any of these devices work?
Yes, a nasal air mask will effectively stop snoring by forcing pressurised air down the wearer's throat, but few people would want to wear one to bed every night. The mask and hose is cumbersome, uncomfortable, and the device requires the wearer to have an electrical outlet at hand. It is also difficult and embarrassing to travel with.
Another device is a simple dental appliance, which significantly reduces snoring and aids in preventing Sleep Apnea when worn to bed at night. It is called an Anti-Snoring Device or ASD.
6. How does an Anti-Snoring Device work?
An ASD fits into the mouth much like an orthodontic retainer or sports mouth guard.
It fits against the teeth of the upper jaw, forcing the lower jaw slightly forward and the mouth slightly open. This keeps the loose or weak muscle tissue at the back of the mouth clear of the pharyngeal airway, promoting the free passage of air. It is possibly the most effective clinical device for reducing snoring and the severe symptoms of Sleep Apnea.
7. Does an Anti-Snoring Device require surgery?
No. Surgery is not required for an ASD. A simple dental examination to measure dental geometry and a full set of teeth impressions are all that is needed for custom fitting the appliance to be constructed for the mouth.
8. How can something so simple work?
It is based on the same principle as tilting the head back to free the airway when giving mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. By manipulating the mandibular anatomy and forcing the lower jaw slightly forward, an Anti-Snoring Device is able to keep the pharyngeal airway open. This principle is not new. It has been known for years, though it has never been successfully applied to snoring until recently.
9. Do I have to wear it every night?
You may wear the appliance as you feel it is necessary. It is small, inconspicuous, and easily transferred to the mouth. It is easy to wear and travel with on vacations etc.
10. Will it work for everyone?
In normal patients, the Anti-Snoring Device is very comfortable, although there may be a period of mild discomfort similar to other break in periods for dental appliances.
Some people experience tempro-mandibular joint pain (TMJ). Also, people with very poor natural teeth may not be able to be fitted with the device. A brief examination will determine your compatibility.
11. Does OHIP cover Anti-Snoring Devices?
No. At present GRIP does not cover these devices
13. Do dental insurance plans cover Anti-Snoring Devices?
Yes. Most dental insurance plans will cover some of the cost. An estimate can be completed before beginning any treatment and sent to your insurance company. This will confirm coverage.
14. How much will a personal consultation cost?
The cost of a personal consultation in our office is provided free of charge. This includes a clinical evaluation, oral examination and written estimate. Referral to a sleep clinic may sometimes be necessary.
15. Does the treatment of snoring require special training for the Denturist?
Yes. The construction of Anti-Snoring Devices requires special training and knowledge and is not practised by every Denturist.
16. Book your free consultation.
Let us show you how easy it is to reduce your snoring.