Many studies on sleep patterns have been done throughout the years. Sleep experts say we need between six and eight hours of sleep to feel rested and function at our best during the day. For some, this simply means going to bed at a reasonable time. However, there are people who cannot feel rested no matter what time they go to bed because they snore, share the bed with someone who snores, or suffer from sleep apnea. Losing an hour or more of sleep a night because of snoring can add up over time. In the case of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the consequences can affect the health of the individual.
OSA is a condition in which an individual stops breathing due to their airway collapsing during sleep and blocking their breathing for up to ten seconds each time. When the OSA is serious, this cessation can occur more than 30 times an hour. These cessations in breathing cause the blood oxygen levels to decrease dramatically. Lower oxygen levels in the blood raise the threat of heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke.
Causes of Sleep Apnea and Snoring
As we sleep, our muscles are relaxed. When the tongue and throat muscles relax, they can block the airway. A partial collapse of the airway results in the sound we call snoring. A complete collapse of the airway cuts off breathing and results in an apneic event. When this happens, you will wake up and begin breathing again because your muscles are no longer relaxed. This may happen as little as five times every hour, or as many as 30 or more times an hour. Obviously, your sleep pattern is going to be affected.
People who are obese, smoke, or consume alcohol have a higher chance of snoring and a greater risk of OSA. Men are more likely to suffer from OSA than women are.
Oral Appliances
If you suffer from snoring or have been diagnosed by a sleep apnea specialist, you may find treatment through oral appliance therapy. Oral appliances are custom-fitted for each patient to minimize the effects of snoring or sleep apnea in a variety of ways. By correcting the position of the jaw, or repositioning the jaw, the tongue and soft tissue will no longer interfere with your airway. One of the most effective oral appliances is the SomnoDent mandibular advancement splint (MAS), manufactured by SomnoMed.
SomnoDent MAS
The SomnoDent MAS is worn over the teeth, much like a sports mouth guard, as you sleep. It pushes the jaw forward from its natural position and, like other oral appliances, keeps the tongue in position and tightens the soft tissue to keep your airway open. Studies have shown that over 60% of patients who wear SomnoDent MAS experience a complete halt in OSA, and those who still have symptoms have a 50% decrease in the severity of their sleep apnea. Episodes of snoring decreased 43% in studies and lowered the volume of snoring (something your bed partner would probably be grateful for).
SomnoDent MAS features a patented “fin-coupling” component which allows the wearer to speak and drink as they normally would.
If you suffer from snoring or believe you may have obstructive sleep apnea and are interested in finding out if SomnoDent MAS by SomnoMed is right for you, please contact Dr. Ira L. Shapira at the Snoring and Sleep Apnea Treatment Center for a free consultation.
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