Snoring is noisy breathing that results from an obstruction in the airway. While we sleep, the muscles in the soft palate, tongue, and throat relax and they can sometimes relax too far back into the throat. When this occurs, the throat and airway is narrowed which causes the tissues in the throat to vibrate. These vibrations are what causes your snoring.

Children can snore and they can be affected by obstructive sleep apnea. Infrequent snoring is not a cause for concern but you should schedule an appointment if your child snores regularly.

Snoring & Sleep Apnea | Denver Sleep Apnea Center

Q: Can snoring be treated?

Yes! Oral health appliance therapy is an effective way to treat snoring. These custom-made oral appliances are similar to a mouthguard and will fit comfortably in your mouth while you sleep, keeping the jaw positioned forward and preventing throat tissues from collapsing.

Q: How can I tell if my snoring is a sign of sleep apnea?

A diagnosis is the best way to determine the cause of your snoring but symptoms of sleep apnea that you can look out for are breathing pauses while you sleep, restless sleep, fatigue during the day, and headaches in the morning.

Q: Can snoring be prevented?

Snoring can be prevented with a mouthguard or mandibular repositioning device. This treatment is called oral appliance therapy. These devices position the jaw and tongue forward to prevent the tissues from collapsing into the throat while you sleep.

Q: Is snoring more common in men or women?

Snoring is more common in men but anyone can snore.

Q: What role does age play in snoring?

As we age, the muscles become lax so it is easier for the throat tissue to collapse while you sleep. Weight gain also comes with age and added weight causes added pressure on the throat and airway.

Q: Does sleeping position affect snoring?

Sleeping on your back makes it easier for the tongue and throat muscles to collapse into the airway. If you snore, try sleeping on your side to relieve your symptoms.

Q: Can snoring be a symptom of a medical condition other than sleep apnea?

Yes. Snoring can also be a sign of sinus problems or enlarged tonsils and adenoids in the throat.

Snoring is an all-too-common problem. While a bout of snoring here and there probably isn’t a cause for concern, if you snore most nights or deal with loud, disruptive snoring this could be impacting your sleep and your health. This could also be a warning sign of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Fortunately, our Denver, CO, dentist Dr. Steven Wilk is a pro when it comes to treating both snoring and OSA.

Sure, you could be dealing with snoring because you have sinus problems, or it could be a sign of OSA. If so, it can be comforting to know that your very own dentist can also provide you with the care you need to get disordered sleeping under control. Through a thorough evaluation, Dr. Wilk can determine if you’re suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. If you’ve already been diagnosed with OSA by a sleep specialist, you can still turn to our dental team for care.

MEET OUR EXPERT

Dr. Steven Wilk is a three-time board certified D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery) based in Denver, CO. He is known for his use of oral appliance therapy to effectively treat sleep apnea and snoring as an alternative to CPAP. After receiving his Bachelor’s Degree from Michigan State University, he attended…

Meet the doctor

No matter whether you are simply dealing with snoring or snoring caused by sleep apnea, Dr. Wilk and his Denver team can help. We offer oral appliance therapy to ease your symptoms and to help you get better-quality sleep. We see it all the time! So many chronic snorers also complain of daytime exhaustion, brain fog, and trouble concentrating. Even if your snoring isn’t being caused by sleep apnea, it can still cause you to toss and turn, causing disruptive sleep. This is why snoring should be properly addressed.

Oral appliance therapy allows our patients to take control over the quality of their sleep once more. This oral device rests comfortably over your teeth just like a mouthguard; however, it keeps your tongue in position and shifts the lower jaw forward to keep airways open. As a result, snoring is greatly reduced or even eliminated.

PATIENT REVIEWS

Dr. Wilk and his staff are very professional and “cutting edge” in their field. My examination was more thorough than any I had had before, and the care I received was excellent. In addition to regular dental work, I had veneers done. They have changed my smile, whitened my teeth, and greatly improved my self-confidence. I would recommend this practice to anyone looking for exceptional dental care.

I was completely satisfied with the professionalism and work of Dr. Wilk and his staff. My husband is very happy that I no longer wake and worry him with my sleep apnea. The appliance Dr. Wilk recommended works very well, even after a year of nightly use. I just had my first annual checkup and the appliance still fits perfectly and is in excellent condition.

Excellent service every time! Attention to details, helpful and knowledgeable staff!

What causes snoring?

Is snoring dangerous?

Can snoring be treated?

How can I tell if my snoring is a sign of sleep apnea?

Can snoring be prevented?

Is snoring more common in men or women?

What role does age play in snoring?

Can children snore?

Does sleeping position affect snoring?

Can snoring be a symptom of a medical condition other than sleep apnea?

See All

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

To receive your diagnosis and learn more about a treatment plan for sleep apnea, schedule a consultation with Dr. Wilk at the Denver Sleep Apnea Center today.