Have you ever wondered why some people snore and others don’t? Snores can range from a delicate buzz to a window-rattling sound that disturbs the sleep of those nearby. Occasional snoring may be related to a cold or allergies, or some other temporary issue with the nasal passages. Regular snoring may indicate sleep apnea. In particular, loud snoring, accompanied by gasps and a feeling that you are not getting a good night’s sleep, may be your body’s way of sending you a very specific message.

Nighttime Snoring Might Indicate:

You Are Getting Older. The throat naturally loses some muscle tone due to aging. Staying in good physical shape can help maintain muscle and skin tone throughout the body, and may reduce the chance you will develop a snore.

Your Weight Has Crept Up. Excess weight can affect the muscle tone, weight and thickness of the neck and throat, narrowing the clear passage for air.

You Overindulged Before Bed. Alcohol use relaxes the muscles (including those of the throat) which makes them more prone to the vibration that causes snoring.

You Need to Change Your Sleep Position. Sleeping on the back is the most snore-prone position. Try side sleeping.

A More Serious Issue: Sleep Apnea

Snoring is often a symptom of Obstructive Sleep Apnea, a serious condition in which the muscles of the throat collapse inwards, completely blocking that area, depriving the body of oxygen. The snoring person then startles to partial wakefulness, the airway reopens and the cycle begins again. This can happen hundreds of times in a single night. Your dentist may be able to diagnose your sleep apnea, and correct it with a custom-fitted dental appliance that holds the jaw in position to allow unobstructed breathing throughout the night.

If You Snore Loudly, Talk to Your Dentist

We have suggestions and methods that can help turn snore-filled nights into nights of healthful sleep. Give us a call in Moreno Valley, CA to schedule a consultation with your dentist. We are proud to serve patients from Riverside, Temecula, Moreno Valley, Corona, and all surrounding California communities. To schedule an appointment, contact one of the following locations nearest to you:

Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.

Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800.

Riverside Dental Group at Woodcrest in Riverside, CA at (951) 776-9001.

Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290.

Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at (951) 369-1001.

Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.