TMJ & Snoring
If you’d like to speak to us about TMJ and Snoring Problems
TMJ & Snoring in Bankstown
Snoring is caused by partial closure of your airway during sleep due to the relaxation of the muscles in your neck. The soft tissues then vibrate to cause the sound of snoring. Although not common knowledge, one of the best treatment options for a good nights sleep is as simple as a mouth guard or what we refer to as a MAS (Mandibular Advancement Splint) device.
Why does it happen?
Certain factors increase the chances of snoring
- Physiology – Anatomical nature of our airways including our nasal(nose) passageways and throat.
- Sex – Men tend to put on upper body weight and therefore have more fat and soft tissue around the neck.
- Weight – If you are overweight then the amount of soft tissue around your neck increases.
- Age – As we get older the muscles in our throat get weaker.
- Lifestyle – Some people snore after drinking alcohol and taking sedatives.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)?
Some snorers “STOP” snoring and breathing for a few seconds and then this is followed by a gasp of air and/or snorting and choking. This can happen several times in the night. Every time we stop breathing this is known as Apnoea- our bodies get starved off oxygen.
Most of those who have sleep apnoea have no recollection of these episodes, however only report tiredness and lethargy.
The lack of sleep can cause:
- Daytime sleepiness
- Poor motivation
- High stress levels
- Lack of energy and less effectiveness at work
In addition OSA also affects your health:
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease
- Poor relationships with partner