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Millions of people around the world are facing snoring problems that prevent them from enjoying a good sleep. Here at Solis Dental, we want to help you breathe easier and sleep better all through the night!
Top 10 Ways to Stop Snoring
Here are the top 10 treatments we’ve found effective to stop snoring. The following list is from most to least recommended.
1. NightLase®
NightLase® is a non-invasive, patient-centric laser therapy that promotes quality sleep. Additionally, it reduces the effects of sleep apnea and the amplitude of snoring using gentle laser light via the process of photo biomodulation or red light therapy. There is no need of the use of anesthesia in this treatment.
How Does This Treatment Work?
“NightLase” is a non-surgical, non-invasive treatment in which laser lights are used to heat and tighten the tissues that cause snoring. This will lead to more open airways, easier breathing, and increased oxygen. In most cases, this results in a reduction of snoring.
Some patients start experiencing great relief from the first treatment which lasts for around 12–24 months. “NightLase” helps promote mouth breathers into nasal breathers and restless nights into a restful sleep. That’s how we help you watch beautiful dreams that come true.
2. Orthodontics (Invisalign®, MyoBrace®, etc..)
Some sleep apnea conditions are caused by imperfect jaw arches; a solution for which can be the application of orthodontics such as MyoBrace® or Invisalign® braces which are clear teeth aligners. Chewing and proper occlusion have been shown to improve jaw formation and development, while enhancing airway. Having straighter teeth may not cure sleep apnea or snoring, but it may help alleviate obstructed airways, promote better breathing and help you get a better night’s sleep, enabling you to feel more energetic during the day.
Additional Resources on Appliances
Jaw Expanders
3. Sleep on Your Side
Lying on your back makes the base of your tongue and soft palate collapse to the back wall of your throat, causing a vibrating sound during sleep. Sleeping on your side (preferably left side) may help prevent this by reducing the compression of your airways.
4. Change Your Habits
Certain lifestyle habits could be making your sleep apnea worse. Some of the most effective lifestyle changes to counter chronic snoring include:
Lose weight
Reduce tobacco use
Treat congestion
Try changing these habits to see immediate effects on your sleep and oral health.
5. Treat Chronic Allergies
Taking note of what you’re allergic to and making an active effort to avoid those allergens is an important first step to fixing your snoring problems. Allergens can cause nasal passages to swell, restricting airflow and making breathing during sleep more difficult.
6. Use Nasal Strips, Nasal Dilator, or Rinses
Nasal strips, rinses, sprays, or nasal dilators are available at your local pharmacy or grocery store as an OTC option for snoring relief. Applying a strip across the bridge of your nose opens up your nostrils slightly, as the plastic splints embedded in it act like springs, increasing airflow during the breathing process.
Like many other OTC treatments, these products may temporarily reduce snoring due to infrequent nasal blockage or sinus congestion, often associated with temporary illnesses such as the flu or a cold.
7. Use Sleep Apnea Pillows
Some people have found that a specifically designed pillow helps them keep their sleep apnea and keep them in a better position during the night while side-sleeping. Trying one of these pillows may be your best first move to get your sleep apnea under control.
8. Anti-Snoring Sleep Apnea Oral Devices or Appliances
Anti-snoring sleep apnea oral devices are a popular way to combat snoring. With the help of our dentists, we can help find the right fit for you.
Sleep Apnea Device Benefits
Can improve symptoms of OSA, including:
Daytime sleepiness.
Moodiness.
Concentration issues.
Reduces or eliminates snoring.
Offers another option for people who cannot tolerate CPAP.
Is easier to take along when traveling.
Works without electricity.
Is quiet.
9. Use a CPAP Machine
A CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine is one of the most common treatments in medicine for sleep apnea. It keeps your airways open by forcing air down the airway while you sleep so you can receive the oxygen you need for optimal function. CPAP machines can significantly improve sleep quality and reduce your risk for a number of health issues.
How Does It Work?
The CPAP machine takes in room air, then filters and pressurizes it before delivering it through a tube and into your mask. The continuous flow of air gently keeps your tongue, uvula, and soft palate from shifting too far into your airway. This will stabilize your breathing and improve your overall sleep quality. Many patients find the mask uncomfortable and/or embarrassing to wear. Also, cleaning the tubing is tedious.
10. Explore Surgical Options
Surgical treatments can eliminate or improve sleep apnea so that continuous positive airway pressure or other appliances are hopefully no longer needed. Our dental team can take a look at your specific dental needs, and point you in the direction of the right surgical options when indicated. These options typically are the most aggressive and most expensive.
Additional Resources on Surgical Options
Septoplasty (deviated septum treatment)
Maxillomandibular Advancement for Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Long-term Results for Maxillomandibular Advancement to Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Ready to Really Sleep Soundly Again? Give Us a Call!
Not sure where to start! We recommend coming to see our dental team first. We can help point you to the best solution for your specific sleep needs.
