Snoring is Something You Need to Talk to Us About
Posted on 10/15/2026 by Lakewood Dental Arts |
 Let's face it, everyone snores occasionally. Maybe you're extra tired, have a cold, or enjoyed a big meal before bed. But when snoring becomes a nightly occurrence, and especially if it's loud and disruptive, it's more than just an annoyance for your bed partner. It could be a sign of a bigger health issue, and it's definitely something your dental team wants to discuss with you.
Why Do We Snore?
Snoring happens when air can't flow freely through your nose and throat during sleep. This restriction causes the tissues in your throat to vibrate, creating that familiar rumbling sound. Several factors can contribute to this, including:
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Anatomy: Some people have naturally larger tonsils, a long uvula (the dangly thing at the back of your throat), or a deviated septum, all of which can narrow the airway. |
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Weight: Excess weight, particularly around the neck, can put pressure on the airway. |
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Alcohol and Medications: These can relax the muscles in your throat, making them more likely to collapse. |
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Sleep Position: Sleeping on your back can cause your tongue and soft palate to fall back, obstructing airflow. |
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Nasal Congestion: Allergies, colds, or sinus infections can make it harder to breathe through your nose, forcing you to breathe through your mouth, which increases the likelihood of snoring. |
When Snoring is More Than Just a Nuisance
While occasional snoring might not be a cause for alarm, chronic or loud snoring can be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a serious condition where you repeatedly stop breathing for short periods throughout the night. These pauses in breathing can lead to a variety of health problems, including:
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High Blood Pressure: OSA puts a strain on your cardiovascular system. |
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Heart Disease: The repeated drops in oxygen levels can damage your heart. |
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Stroke: OSA increases the risk of blood clots. |
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Type 2 Diabetes: OSA can affect how your body processes glucose. |
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Daytime Fatigue: Constantly waking up throughout the night, even if you don't realize it, leaves you feeling tired and sluggish during the day. |
The Dental Connection
You might be wondering what snoring has to do with your dentist. As dental professionals, we're trained to recognize signs and symptoms of OSA. During your routine check-ups, we examine your oral structures, including your tongue, tonsils, and soft palate. We can also observe signs like teeth grinding (bruxism) and a scalloped tongue, which are often associated with sleep apnea.
We understand the importance of overall health, which includes quality sleep. We can discuss your snoring habits, assess your risk for OSA, and recommend appropriate next steps. This might involve a referral to a sleep specialist for a formal diagnosis.
What Can You Do?
If you suspect you might have a snoring problem or OSA, the first step is to talk to us. Don't be embarrassed – it's a common condition, and we're here to help. In addition to seeking professional advice, there are also some lifestyle changes you can try:
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Maintain a healthy weight. |
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Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bed. |
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Sleep on your side. |
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Use nasal strips or a nasal dilator to improve airflow. |
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Ensure good oral care and hygiene to maintain a healthy oral environment. |
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Discuss options for restoration dentistry that may improve sleep if you have missing or damaged teeth. |
Snoring shouldn't be ignored. By discussing it with your dental team, you can take proactive steps to protect your health and improve your quality of life. |
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