I haven’t slept in weeks. I’m newly married and we are one of those rare couples who didn’t sleep together until we were married, so I had no clue about his snoring. It is MASSIVE. He’s been super sweet about it and we’ve tried those nose strips. That did nothing. He’s offered to sleep on the couch, but I don’t want that. My mother said a dentist can help. So….HELP! What do we need to do?
Karyn
Dear Karyn,
First, congratulations on your new marriage. What an exciting time. Though, it will be more exciting after you get some rest. Yes. A dentist can definitely help you. You’ll want to look for a dentist in your area who treats sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea and Snoring
Here is what is going on with your groom. While he is sleeping, the muscles in the back of his throat are relaxing into his air passage. This is causing a vibration when he breathes that comes out as snoring. With some people, the muscles do more than just dip into the air passage. Instead, they completely block it. This is known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
With Obstructive Sleep Apnea, it will actually stop the patient’s breathing. His brain will recognize that and startle him awake. This usually happens without him realizing it. He snorts and jolts, then falls back asleep. This can happen hundreds of times a night without him realizing it. He’ll get a full night’s sleep yet wake up exhausted. This will also put stress on his heart.
The solution to both of these problems is the same. A dentist can provide an oral device that he can wear. It’s a bit like a sports mouthguard. The difference being this one is adjustable and made to custom fit his bite while gently moving it into correct positioning. This will help him breathe more freely…and the key benefit for you…silently.
Can you feel the good night’s sleep approaching?
I hope this helps. One other thing. If he’s like many who are uncomfortable around the dentist, maybe you can find a “Cater to Cowards” dentist that treats sleep apnea. Dentists who advertise this way are used to dealing with fearful patients and are skilled at making them comfortable in the dental chair.
This blog is brought to you by Sugarland Dentist Dr. Siny Thomas.