Almost everyone snores occasionally, but a full 25% of the
population snore regularly. Unfortunately not only does snoring make life more
unpleasant for significant others, but it can present a serious health hazard.
It occurs when the soft tissue in the back of the throat vibrates when air is
inhaled. This causes the snoring noise.
 Snoring can be a sign of obstructive sleep
apnea, which is a truly serious disorder in which the snorer actually stops
breathing several times an hour during sleep. An examination and a
questionnaire to our patients can help determine whether you are a "simple
snorer" or if you have a more significant breathing disorder.
Because
oral and maxillofacial surgery encompasses both the disciplines of surgery and
dentistry, we are in a very unique position to treat this problem. By combining
state-of-the-art radiofrequency treatment of the soft tissues in the back of
the mouth called "somnoplasty" with dental appliances that help reposition the
jaw and tongue, your snoring can be improved or even cured.
Northern
Essex Oral Surgery was the first private office in New England to have this
equipment able to do the somnoplasty procedure. Attending to this problem
cannot only make life more compatible between you and your significant other,
but can actually help improve your overall general health. |
