Snoring is not sleep apnea, and sleep apnea is not snoring. Snoring is a social problem, which may involve considerable sleep disturbance, waking episodes, etc., without obstructive sleep apnea. However, many patients with loud snoring, may also have obstructive sleep apnea.
Sleep disorders can range from mild to severe snoring, to times when breathing may actually stop (sleep apnea). Severe snoring may be a sign of the potentially serious obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). There are a variety of treatments for each disorder. Dentistry is now serving a vital role in treating this under-diagnosed epidemic. Now many dentists are getting trained and certified in Sleep Medicine. Dentists are committed to treating your overall oral health and well-being and will work with your doctor to find an effective treatment for your sleep disorder.
At the office of Dr. Lisa Loescher Family Dentistry in Slidell, La. they encourage patients to get a home sleep test and specialize in providing treatments for many kinds of sleep disorders. “We offer a free consultation to all of our patients and welcome new patients to call our office for an appointment to discuss their sleep behaviors. Many treatments are covered by medical insurance,” says Dr. Loescher.
Snoring
Snoring is common, and it can affect both the person sleeping and the bed partner trying to rest nearby. Such snoring may lead to relationship strain, sleep disturbances, waking episodes, and possible sleep apnea episodes. MedlinePlus explains that snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea, especially when it comes with daytime tiredness, poor sleep, or waking up gasping.
- Marital discord.
- Sleep disturbances from spousal prodding.
- Waking episodes from one’s own snoring.
- Frequent sleep apnea episodes.
Loud snorers may need a home sleep test to determine whether sleep apnea is present. Treatment is discussed once sleep study results are reviewed by a sleep physician, and decisions are based on whether significant apnea exists. Non-surgical options may include an oral sleep appliance, and some providers may discuss laser light therapy designed to tighten tissue and help open the airway.
Oral Sleep Appliances
Dentists pioneered the use of oral appliance therapy. An oral appliance is a device worn in the mouth only during sleep. It fits like a sports mouth guard or orthodontic retainer. A custom-fit oral sleep appliance can be an effective treatment that prevents the airway from collapsing by supporting the jaw in a forward position. According to Joseph Wessing, a patient at the office of Dr. Lisa Loescher, “I am now allowed back in my own bed since getting my snore appliance. The mouthpiece is comfortable and allows me to get a better night sleep.”
Laser Reduction Therapy
Laser Aesthetics is a method used to treat mild-to-moderate snorers and those with very mild OSAS. This procedure uses a laser beam to remove or tighten loose soft palatal tissue in the back of the mouth, which may reduce how much those tissues contribute to snoring. This procedure can be performed in an outpatient setting. MedlinePlus explains that snoring comes from vibration of the soft palate and uvula at the back of the mouth, which helps explain why some treatments focus on those tissues.
- Many people find that their snoring is reduced after treatment.
- Some patients may need multiple treatments for severe snoring.
- A sleep study can help determine whether snoring is connected to sleep apnea.
A Patient Friendly Solution
Dr. Loescher offers both oral sleep appliances and a full course of laser treatments. The laser treatments are done in her office and consist of three to four separate treatment sessions every three weeks. The final results of the treatment have been shown to last up to a year, and the therapy can be repeated.
Dr. Loescher says her patients find the laser to be a highly comfortable and satisfying solution. According to Dr. Loescher, “This treatment does not necessarily require a device to be worn during sleep and involves no chemical treatment. It’s a gentle and easy way for my patients to regain a good night’s rest.”
Dr. Lisa Loescher, DDS is certified by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Her office is located at 1400 Old Spanish Trail in Slidell, La. Her office can be reached at (985) 643-6620.