Sleep Aponea

In the field of Mandibular Advancement Splints, our team of consulting orthodontists is regarded as a national and international authority. They treat patients from the entirety of Ireland and Europe.

What exactly is snoring?

The primary cause of snoring is the partial obstruction of the airway during sleep. During sleep, the neck muscles relax, and for some individuals, the soft tissues in the upper throat vibrate, resulting in snoring. Now that you understand snoring, what do you know about Sleep Apnea?

What is obstructive apnea of sleep?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a severe medical condition that is more prevalent than previously believed. In Ireland, the incidence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea is comparable to that of Diabetes and double that of severe Asthma.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when a person ceases breathing between 50 and 60 times per hour while asleep. These pauses in breathing, known as "Sleep Apnea," occur when the airway becomes so constricted that it closes. When compared to simple snoring, Obstructive Sleep Apnea is caused by a complete closure of the airway, whereas simple snoring is caused by the vibration of soft tissue in the pharynx due to a partial closure of the airway.

The cessation of respiration caused by the obstruction of the airway reduces the blood oxygen level. The brain's response induces a partial awakening. Frequently, the snorer is unaware of this partial awakening during the night. As a result of this sleep fragmentation, many individuals experience excessive daytime drowsiness, resulting in their inability to concentrate, marital discord, and falling unconscious at inappropriate times. They are at least twice as likely to be involved in a car accident if they have obstructive sleep apnea if they are driving. Nonetheless, this is not the worst possible news. The repeated drops in blood oxygen levels induced by OSA have been linked to the development of high blood pressure, heart disease, strokes, and diabetes, according to research. The reality is that untreated OSA is a killer and must be taken seriously, and many snorers are merely unaware of the severity of their condition.

A person with OSA will snore loudly, their partner may report that they cease breathing during sleep, and both may find it difficult to sleep, leading to daytime drowsiness and other issues.

Snoring therapy

Mandibular Advancement Splint therapy, Continuous Positive Airways Pressure, Weight loss, and Surgery are the four clinically proven options.

Mandibular Progression Splint

Mandibular Advancement Splints (MAS) are custom-made mouthpieces worn at night to treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Modern devices permit gradual advancement of the lower mandible, which not only improves their effectiveness but also facilitates the patient's gradual adaptation to them. In the management of obstructive sleep apnea, they are now nationally and internationally recognised. Our Orthodontics team, which has a Ph.D. in the field of Mandibular Advancement Splints and is recognised as a national and international expert, can create such devices.

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) Products

CPAP is the gold standard for patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea. There are a variety of CPAP products and apparatus.nThe use of CPAP is not advised for the treatment of uncomplicated snoring.

Reducing Weight

Weight loss can reduce or eliminate snoring and has numerous additional health benefits, but it is a gradual process.

Snoring Surgery

Surgery is an option for treating snoring, but it is not always effective and can be exceedingly painful. It is not considered a treatment option for obstructive sleep apnea.