Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Snoring is the most physically noticeable symptom of sleep apnea. While most patients with sleep apnea will snore, not all those who snore have sleep apnea, making it important to determine the cause of your snoring and receive the appropriate treatment. When you visit Chetan Parikh, DMD, MDS, DABCDSM, our caring dentist will provide treatments for snoring and will work with you to determine if your snoring is a sign of sleep apnea or of a less serious problem. Please contact our office today to learn more about snoring treatments in Rockville, Maryland, and schedule your consultation with Dr. Chetan Parikh.

Why Do I Snore?

About 37 million Americans snore regularly. You may snore for any number of reasons; however, snoring often occurs because the soft tissues in the throat and the soft palate vibrate due to airway restriction. Tissues that may vibrate include:

• Tongue
• Soft palate
• Uvula
• Tonsils
• Adenoids
• Excessive fatty tissues in the throat

You may also snore as a result of the position in which you sleep or a cold or other illness. If you snore regularly, we recommend that you visit our dentist for a consultation. Dr. Chetan Parikh is specially trained to treat snoring and will help you determine whether or not you snore as a result of sleep apnea.

Effect on Partners

Often, the person most affected by your snoring is not you but your partner. Snoring can prevent one’s partner from falling and staying asleep. In fact, a snorer wakes their partner an average of 20 times every night. Poor sleep, regardless of cause, can contribute to:

• Depression
• Weight gain
• Skin aging
• Spousal disagreements
• Marital dissatisfaction

If your partner has noticed consistent snoring when you sleep, don’t make them put up with it. We can help you both sleep easier at night with a variety of treatments and therapies. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Snoring Treatment

Dr. Parikh ensures that once his patients' teeth are healthy and in good overall health, he prioritizes their airway health. This crucial aspect is often overlooked by many dentists. A healthy airway is the first step towards overall health and avoiding sleep apnea.

If a patient is diagnosed with sleep apnea by a sleep physician, Dr. Parikh helps manage it appropriately. In adults, sleep apnea can cause a lack of energy and increase the risk of chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and other heart diseases. It can also lead to snoring, weight gain, and many other health issues. In children, sleep apnea can result in significant learning and behavioral issues, such as ADHD and poor grades in school.

The treatment you receive for snoring will depend on its cause. Patients who snore due to sleep apnea require a treatment focused more on sleep apnea than on simple snoring. For instance, an oral device to treat or mask snoring may not provide the best results for a patient with obstructive sleep apnea. We encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chetan Parikh, DMD, MDS, DABCDSM, to determine the cause of your snoring and receive the appropriate treatment.

Exploring Treatment Options: Oral Appliance Therapy vs. CPAP

CPAP Therapy: The Traditional Treatment

CPAP therapy has been the gold standard for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It involves wearing a mask connected to a machine that delivers a continuous flow of air to keep the airway open. While effective, CPAP therapy is not always the most comfortable or convenient option for all patients. Many find the mask cumbersome, and studies have shown that 30-50% of CPAP users struggle with compliance, often discontinuing use within weeks.

Oral Appliance Therapy: A No-Mask Alternative

An oral appliance, also known as a mandibular advancement device, is similar to a mouth guard or retainer. Custom-fitted by a dentist trained in sleep medicine, the appliance works by repositioning the lower jaw slightly forward. This adjustment keeps the airway open during sleep, preventing it from collapsing and blocking airflow.

Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy

1. No Mask or Machine Needed: Oral appliances eliminate the need for a mask or bulky equipment, offering a more streamlined solution.
2. Comfortable and Easy to Wear: The device is designed to be worn comfortably throughout the night without the discomfort often associated with CPAP masks.
3. Discreet and Silent: Unlike CPAP machines, oral appliances are virtually invisible and silent, making them a discreet option for treating sleep apnea.
4. Convenient and Portable: Perfect for travel, oral appliances are easy to maintain and pack, with no need for electricity.
5. Allows for Normal Activities: Patients can talk, drink, and move freely without the constraints of a CPAP mask.
6. Immediate Improvement: Many patients experience significant improvement in sleep quality within the first few nights of use.

Effectiveness of Oral Appliance Therapy

Oral Appliance Therapy has been shown to be highly effective for many patients. Studies reveal that 91% of users report improved sleep quality. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) endorses oral appliance therapy as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Additionally, the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) recommends it as a primary treatment option during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its non-invasive nature.

Does Insurance Cover Oral Appliance Therapy?

At Rockville Family Dental, the cost of oral appliance therapy is typically covered by most medical insurance plans, as sleep apnea is considered a medical condition. They handle insurance billing directly and offer flexible payment options for those with high deductibles or no insurance.

Making Your Decision

Choosing between CPAP and Oral Appliance Therapy depends on several factors, including the severity of your sleep apnea, your comfort preferences, and your lifestyle. Consulting with a sleep specialist can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and medical history.

Oral Appliance Therapy offers a viable and often preferred alternative to CPAP for treating sleep apnea. With its comfort, convenience, and effectiveness, it addresses many of the challenges associated with 

traditional CPAP therapy.

If you find CPAP therapy to be uncomfortable or are looking for a less invasive option, Oral Appliance Therapy might be a suitable alternative. For more information or to explore your treatment options, contact Rockville Family Dental, which offers a range of solutions tailored to your needs.