Snoring by itself is harmless but it can be the sign of a very serious medical condition known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Sleep apnea is a common disorder in which patients have one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. 

Sleep apnea is generally a chronic (ongoing) condition that disrupts sleep. When breathing pauses or becomes shallow, the level of sleep often shifts from deep into light, resulting in poor quality of rest. People with OSA are constantly tired, may fall asleep easily during the day, irritable, have some difficulty staying focused, exhibit sexual dysfunction and impotency, and can have bad breath. Sleep apnea is a leading cause of fatigue and excessive daytime sleepiness.

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The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). 

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As an alternative to visiting a sleep clinic, Dr. Wehby can recommend a complimentary, home-based sleep test with a portable monitor. This monitor will record important information to help diagnose sleep apnea. The results will help determine the best method of treatment. 

 

Depending on the severity of OSA, treatment options may include oral sleep appliance therapy, CPAP, or surgery. Oral appliances are custom fitted mouth guards specifically manufactured for you. These appliances are designed to move your lower jaw forward to keep your airway open while you sleep by preventing the tongue from falling back. Oral appliances are comfortable, easy to wear, portable and non-invasive. Unlike CPAP, there is no mask to wear and no hoses to deal with. They are best indicated for people who snore, have mild to moderate OSA, are CPAP intolerant, grind their teeth, and have TMJ and facial pain.