What Causes Snoring?

Snoring occurs when the respiratory muscles in the throat relax during sleep, causing the airway to narrow. As air passes through this restricted space, the soft tissues (such as the palate and tongue) vibrate, creating the sound of snoring.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?

Sleep Apnoea is a condition where the airway narrows to the point of complete closure, temporarily stopping breathing. These “apnoeic events” can last for 10 seconds or longer and may occur multiple times per hour. This deprives the body of oxygen and prevents the sufferer from entering deep, restorative sleep cycles.

Common Indicators of OSA include:

  • Witnessed Apnoea: Observations by a partner of gasping, choking, or pauses in breathing during sleep.

  • Morning Symptoms: Waking with a dry mouth or a persistent headache.

  • Daytime Fatigue: Feeling excessively tired despite a full night’s sleep, often leading to a lack of concentration.

The Role of the Dentist in Sleep Medicine

Sleep Apnoea is a medical condition that requires a formal diagnosis. Your first point of call should be your General Practitioner (GP), who may refer you for a sleep study (polysomnography) to determine the severity of the condition.

For patients diagnosed with snoring or mild to moderate Sleep Apnoea, a dental solution may be indicated. This typically involves a Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS).

How a Mandibular Advancement Splint Works

An MAS is a custom-made oral appliance worn during sleep. It is designed to:

  • Position the Jaw: Gently hold the lower jaw (mandible) in a forward position.

  • Open the Airway: By advancing the jaw, the appliance helps keep the soft tissues at the back of the throat from collapsing, allowing for clearer breathing.

At Bond St, the process involves a clinical assessment and impressions to ensure the device is custom-fitted to your dental anatomy. Custom-made appliances are generally better tolerated and more stable than generic, over-the-counter options.

Investment and Planning

The cost of a custom-made mandibular advancement splint varies depending on the specific design and material required. Following a clinical consultation and a review of your sleep study results, we provide a detailed treatment plan including estimated costs.

Important Information

  • Medical Diagnosis Mandatory: A dentist cannot diagnose Sleep Apnoea. You must consult a GP or Sleep Specialist for a formal diagnosis before a Mandibular Advancement Splint can be prescribed.

  • Clinical Suitability: Not all patients are candidates for an MAS. Factors such as gum health, the number of remaining teeth, and the severity of OSA will determine suitability.

  • Management vs. Cure: An oral appliance is a management tool for snoring and OSA; it is not a “cure.” Continued medical review is essential.

  • Device Risks: Potential side effects include temporary jaw tenderness, tooth sensitivity, or minor changes to your bite (occlusion).

  • Results: The effectiveness of an MAS varies significantly between individuals. No specific percentage of success can be guaranteed.

  • Mandatory Warning: All dental procedures and medical appliances carry risks. Any invasive procedure carries additional risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.