Although snoring can drive family members, partners, or roommates crazy, it can also give your dentist reason for concern. Fortunately, by knowing why you snore, how it could impact your oral health, and what to do about the problem, you can take steps to protect your teeth. Read on to learn more about why dentists are concerned about snoring. 

The Causes of Snoring

Snoring has a long list of causes, including anatomical abnormalities in your throat, sleeping in a strange position, or consuming alcohol before bedtime. Alcohol causes the throat tissues to relax, creating a partially obstructed airway. Some people have large tonsils or excess skin and fat around their neck area, which increases the risk of developing issues like obstructive sleep apnea. 

How Snoring Impacts the Oral Cavity

Since it means you’re breathing through your mouth for extended periods at night, snoring can be hard on the teeth. When you breathe through your mouth, saliva can’t work to rinse your teeth clean and restore your oral pH to its normal level, allowing bacteria to thrive. 

How to Stop Snoring

Fortunately, your dentist can treat dental problems caused by snoring and work with you to reduce your snoring.

Custom mouthguards can be used to keep the throat muscles from relaxing by moving the lower jaw slightly forward. These appliances make it easier to breathe, while also protecting your teeth from extra salivary evaporation and tooth damage from grinding or clenching. If you have sleep apnea, your dentist may also recommend a CPAP or continuous positive airway pressure machine to use during sleep. 

If you or someone you love snores, turn to Kennedy Dental Group LLC in Anchorage, AK, for help. In addition to offering custom mouthguards to treat sleep apnea, this trusted dentist can also treat gum disease, provide dental implant placement, and even address cosmetic dentistry concerns. Learn more about how they can help by visiting their website or by giving their office a call at (907) 277-5684.