Sleep apnoea and snoring: can the dentist help?
In short: yes, the dentist can help with snoring and mild or moderate apnoea using a mandibular advancement device: a custom-made appliance that you wear to sleep and that keeps the airway open. It does not replace the sleep doctor in severe cases, but for many people it is a comfortable and effective solution. If you snore a lot or have pauses in your breathing, it is worth having it assessed.
What does the dentist have to do with sleep?
More than it seems. Many cases of snoring and apnoea happen because, as the body relaxes during sleep, the jaw and tongue fall backwards and narrow the airway. And it turns out that the dentist is the one who can best act on the position of the jaw with a custom-made appliance.
The mandibular advancement device
This is the star tool. It is a custom-made appliance, similar to a sleep splint, that moves the lower jaw slightly forward while you sleep. In doing so, the airway is left more open and:
- Snoring is reduced.
- The breathing pauses of mild or moderate apnoea decrease.
- It is comfortable, silent and portable (very useful compared with other, bulkier devices).
It is a highly valued option for mild-to-moderate apnoea and for snorers, as we explain on our page about sleep apnoea in Bilbao.
Who is it for and who is it not for?
It is important to be honest:
| Situation | Who treats it |
|---|---|
| Simple snoring | The dentist (device) can help |
| Mild or moderate apnoea | Advancement device, often a good option |
| Severe apnoea | The sleep doctor (may need CPAP or others) |
Severe apnoea is a serious health problem that is managed by the sleep doctor. The dentist collaborates, but the diagnosis of apnoea is made by sleep medicine, usually with an overnight study.
Why not ignore apnoea?
Because it goes beyond rest. Untreated apnoea is associated with daytime tiredness, concentration problems and a higher cardiovascular risk. If you snore a lot, wake up with a feeling of choking or are always exhausted despite sleeping, do not let it slide: it is worth having it assessed.
The first step
If you think you or your partner might have apnoea or you snore significantly, come in and we will assess it: we will see whether an advancement device fits your case or whether it is best to refer you to the sleep unit. The first visit is free. Book an appointment whenever you like.
Frequently asked questions
Can the dentist treat sleep apnoea and snoring?
In mild or moderate cases, yes: with a mandibular advancement device, a custom-made appliance that slightly moves the lower jaw forward during sleep to keep the airway open. It reduces snoring and apnoeas. Severe cases are managed by the sleep doctor, sometimes with other treatments.
What is a mandibular advancement device?
It is a custom-made appliance, similar to a splint, that you wear to sleep and that keeps the lower jaw slightly forward. This keeps the airway more open and reduces snoring and the breathing pauses of mild or moderate apnoea.
Is snoring always sleep apnoea?
No. Snoring does not always mean apnoea, but it can be a warning sign. Apnoea consists of pauses in breathing while you sleep that affect your rest and your health. If you snore a lot, gasp for air at night or are always tired, it is worth having it assessed by a sleep doctor.
Can we help with your case?
Free first consultation and diagnosis in Bilbao, no commitment.
