Snoring

Everyone snores occasionally, but for some, it is a chronic condition that can affect your sleep and the quality of sleep for those around you.

Snoring is one of the most common sleep problems, and most people wouldn’t think it’s important to tell their dentist that they snore. A snore on its own is relatively harmless, but it can also be a sign of something more serious, like sleep apnea.

Dr. Gallegos can check for signs of irritation in your mouth and throat and will look for signs of snoring like checking to see if the soft tissue looks irritated from sleeping with your mouth open. If he feels there is enough evidence, he may refer you to a sleep specialist for a polysomnogram, or sleep study, to rule out sleep apnea.

If sleep apnea is not the cause, snoring can be treated in many ways. Some of the most straightforward treatments include losing excess weight, avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, and sleeping on your side.

Another effective way to help you stop snoring is an oral appliance similar to a retainer that is worn at night. It forces the jaw in a forward position, preventing the soft tissues from vibrating as loudly. There are many different appliance styles on the market, and some are covered by health insurance. Dr. Gallegos can help you decide which is best for you.