Snoring is a Symptom of Problems You Need to Discuss with Us
Posted on 9/1/2025 by Thomas Plunkett DMD
Snoring is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. It is often seen as a nuisance, but it can also be a symptom of more serious underlying medical conditions. If you or someone you know snores regularly, it is important to talk to a doctor or dentist to rule out any potential health problems.
What Causes Snoring?
There are several factors that can contribute to snoring. Some people have a naturally narrow airway, while others have enlarged tonsils or adenoids. In some cases, snoring can be caused by obesity or the use of alcohol or sedatives.
When you sleep, the muscles in your throat relax. If your airway is narrow, these muscles can collapse and obstruct the flow of air, causing the tissues in your throat to vibrate. This vibration creates the sound of snoring.
The Health Risks of Snoring
Snoring is not just a nuisance. It can also be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a serious condition that can lead to several health problems, including:
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High blood pressure
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Heart disease
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Stroke
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Diabetes
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Depression
If you suspect that you or someone you know may have OSA, it is important to see a doctor or dentist right away. They can perform a sleep study to diagnose OSA and recommend treatment options.
How Can We Help?
At Thomas Plunkett DMD, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive oral care for our patients. This includes addressing the underlying causes of snoring.
There are a number of things that we can do to help you stop snoring, depending on the underlying cause. These may include:
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Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed, and sleeping on your side can all help reduce snoring.
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Oral appliance therapy: We can fit you with a custom-made oral appliance that will help to keep your airway open while you sleep.
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Restoration dentistry: In some cases, snoring can be caused by missing teeth or misaligned jaws. Restoration dentistry procedures, such as dental implants or orthodontics, may be able to correct these problems and reduce or eliminate snoring.
If you are concerned about snoring, please talk to us. We can help you determine the underlying cause and recommend the best treatment options for you.
By working together, we can help you get a good night's sleep and improve your overall health.
Snoring is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. It is often seen as a nuisance, but it can also be a symptom of more serious underlying medical conditions. If you or someone you know snores regularly, it is important to talk to a doctor or dentist to rule out any potential health problems.