Everyone snores from time to time, but for some, it’s a regular occurrence. If you or someone in your household is a chronic snorer, you’ll be glad to know it’s typically not a serious medical condition. However, if you’re frustrated by its effects on your sleep, read on to learn what causes snoring and how your dentist or doctor may be able to help. 

What Causes Snoring?

Snoring occurs when air causes the throat tissues to vibrate. Several factors can cause these vibrations, including sinus congestion and allergies, or a thick, soft palate, which results in a narrow airway and restricted airflow. Sleep apnea and narrow sinus cavities can also make people more prone to snoring. Alcohol consumption or not getting adequate sleep can also increase your susceptibility, as these factors relax the throat muscles, making them more prone to vibrations. Snoring is typically not harmful, but if chronic snoring begins to impact your sleeping or breathing patterns, or disrupts your partner’s sleep, you may want to seek help.

What Can You Do About It?

Although snoring can be a frustrating condition, the good news is, it is highly treatable. If you’re in the habit of drinking alcohol before bed, cutting down can decrease snoring. This is because alcohol consumption relaxes the muscles, making the throat more prone to vibrations. Alcohol can also disrupt sleep, making you less likely to achieve deep sleep in which snoring is less likely to occur. Likewise, if you tend to sleep on your back, adjust your position, as gravity can cause the throat muscles to loosen, restricting your breathing and resulting in harsh vibrations. If you have respiratory or sinus issues, speak with your doctor about ways to treat these underlying conditions, which will then reduce snoring. A dentist can also help by giving you an oral appliance or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to properly align the jaw and throat, minimizing noise-causing vibrations by improving airflow. 

If you’re a Cincinnati, OH, resident, turn to the trusted dental team at Dr. Robert N. Petrtyl, DDS for all of your general and cosmetic dentistry needs. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Petrtyl is one of the area’s most respected dentists. Whether you need help with snoring, teeth cleaning, or fillings and crowns, there’s no one better to trust with your oral health. Call (513) 554-4657 to speak with a team member or visit their website to learn more about the services the dentist offers.