Snoring and Sleep Apnoea: How Your Dentist Can Help

Understanding Snoring and Sleep Apnoea

Snoring is a common concern that affects many Australians and their partners. While occasional snoring may not be a cause for alarm, persistent or loud snoring can sometimes be associated with a condition known as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). OSA occurs when the soft tissues at the back of the throat temporarily collapse during sleep, partially or fully blocking the airway. This can lead to interrupted breathing, restless sleep, and daytime fatigue.

Many people are surprised to learn that their dentist may be able to assist with snoring and mild sleep apnoea. At Divine Dental Care in Croydon, we can work alongside your GP or sleep specialist to explore whether a dental approach could be suitable for your situation.

How Dental Appliances May Help

One of the more common dental approaches to managing snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnoea involves custom-fitted oral appliances, sometimes called mandibular advancement devices (MADs). These devices are designed to gently reposition the lower jaw and tongue forward during sleep, which may help keep the airway more open.

There are several types of oral devices that your dentist may discuss with you:

• Mandibular advancement splints — custom-made devices that hold the lower jaw in a slightly forward position during sleep
• Tongue-retaining devices — appliances that hold the tongue in a forward position to help prevent airway obstruction
• Combination devices — some appliances address both jaw and tongue positioning for a more tailored approach

It is important to note that oral appliances are generally considered for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnoea, and their suitability varies from person to person. A thorough assessment is always recommended before beginning any treatment.

Signs You Should Speak to Your Dentist

If you or your partner have noticed any of the following, it may be worth raising the topic at your next dental appointment:

• Loud or frequent snoring that disrupts sleep
• Episodes of gasping or choking during sleep
• Waking up feeling unrefreshed despite a full night of sleep
• Persistent daytime drowsiness or difficulty concentrating
• Morning headaches or a dry mouth upon waking

Your dentist can assess your oral structures, discuss your symptoms, and, if appropriate, refer you for a sleep study to confirm whether sleep apnoea may be a factor. In many cases, dentists work collaboratively with sleep physicians to determine the most appropriate management plan.

What to Expect at Divine Dental Care

At Divine Dental Care, we take a careful, patient-centred approach to sleep-related dental concerns. If a dental appliance is considered suitable, we take precise impressions of your teeth to ensure the device fits comfortably and functions as intended. Follow-up appointments allow us to make adjustments and monitor your progress over time.

If you have concerns about snoring or sleep quality, we encourage you to book a consultation so we can discuss your options and help determine the right path forward for your individual needs.