Snoring might seem like just an annoyance, but for many Australians, it’s a warning sign of something far more serious—obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). An estimated 5% of Australians suffer from sleep apnoea (neura.edu.au), with many cases remaining undiagnosed. Left untreated, it can lead to chronic fatigue, cardiovascular disease, and serious long-term health risks.
Your oral health plays a crucial role in identifying and managing sleep apnoea, and our dental team may be the first to spot the signs. Let’s explore how to tell the difference between simple snoring and a more serious sleep disorder—and how dental treatment can help.
Is Snoring Normal? Or Is It a Sign of Something More?
Snoring happens when air passes through relaxed throat tissues, causing vibrations during sleep. While common, persistent snoring can be a red flag for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA)—a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, reducing oxygen flow to the brain and body.
Sleep apnoea falls into two main categories:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA): Caused by physical airway blockages, often due to the tongue or soft tissues collapsing during sleep.
- Central Sleep Apnoea (CSA): A neurological condition where the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Signs & Health Risks of Sleep Apnoea
If you or a loved one experience chronic snoring, excessive daytime fatigue, morning headaches, or waking up gasping for air, sleep apnoea could be the culprit. Beyond affecting sleep quality, untreated sleep apnoea increases the risk of:
- Heart disease & high blood pressure: Low oxygen levels strain the cardiovascular system.
- Type 2 diabetes & metabolic complications: Sleep disruptions can contribute to insulin resistance.
- Cognitive issues: Memory loss, mood disorders, and difficulty concentrating.
- Weakened immune function & higher risk of infections.
Ignoring sleep apnoea may have serious long-term consequences on a person’s overall health.
How Can a Dentist Help?
Dentists play a key role in identifying early signs of sleep apnoea and providing effective, non-invasive treatments. At Mentone Family Dental, we take a holistic approach, integrating advanced diagnostics and tailored solutions to improve breathing and sleep quality.
Our Approach to Sleep Apnoea Management
Screening & Diagnosis Support
Sleep apnoea is often detected during routine dental check-ups when examining the airway, tongue positioning, and signs of tooth wear from nighttime grinding (a common symptom of airway restriction). If sleep apnoea is suspected, we guide patients through comprehensive sleep assessments and specialist referrals for accurate diagnosis.
Advanced Imaging to Assess Airways
Using CBCT (Cone Beam CT) scans, we can assess airway structure and potential obstructions, providing crucial insight into whether dental intervention can assist.
Custom Oral Devices
For many patients, mandibular advancement devices (MADs) offer an effective, non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines. These custom-fitted dental appliances gently reposition the lower jaw and tongue, preventing airway collapse and improving airflow.
Minimally Invasive Treatment Options
Alongside lifestyle changes, treatments such as orthodontics, myofunctional therapy, and laser therapy can help address the underlying causes of sleep apnoea, reducing the need for more invasive interventions.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
A proper diagnosis requires a sleep study, which may involve a home sleep test or an overnight assessment in a sleep clinic. While dentists cannot diagnose sleep apnoea, we work closely with sleep specialists to ensure patients receive comprehensive, multi- disciplinary care.
Recognising the difference between simple snoring and sleep apnoea is the first step toward better health, improved energy, and a longer life. If you or a loved one snores loudly, wakes frequently, or struggles with daytime fatigue, don’t wait to seek help.
Book a consultation today to explore your options and take control of your sleep health. A healthier, more energised you starts with better sleep.
Call us on (03) 9583 4181 or book online to get started.