Snoring and sleep apnoea – mandibular advancement splint on the lower jaw as a remedy
1.5 million people in Switzerland snore. Simple snoring is hardly dangerous, but if it also occurs in conjunction with short interruptions in breathing it must be dealt with. Approx. 200,000 Swiss suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea.
Snoring is normally caused by constriction of the airways. Constriction occurs, for example, when muscles in the throat or tongue relax during sleep. Obesity, jaw misalignment, or constricted nasal passages can also be the cause, however. Symptoms include drowsiness on the following day, headaches, irritability, chronic insomnia, depression, and many more.
During obstructive sleep apnoea the airways close completely, causing interruptions in breathing. For the body this means stress instead of restorative sleep. A reduced heart rate, increase in blood pressure, and lowered oxygen supply to the brain can result. These symptoms can lead to a heart attack or a stroke.
Better, healthier, and more restorative sleep
The spouse usually isn't too pleased when their partner disturbs his or her peaceful slumber. In extreme cases, couples are forced into separate bedrooms or suffer from relationship problems.
A solution to this is a snore guard. These special guards are known sometimes as UPS-guards (mandibular advancement splint) and work by pushing the lower jaw forward a few millimetres. This tightens one's soft tissues and holds the airways opens.
The UPS is comfortable, easy to wear, low-risk, and non-invasive, as no operation is necessary. Using a snore guard is easy, as is cleaning it. It also can be easily taken on travels. The effectiveness of a snore guard is scientifically proven and already helps many people get a better, healthier, and more restorative sleep.
The Bussmann Laboratory in Lucerne is our partner here and have many years of experience making UPS guards. These dental guards are very effective at preventing snoring and sleep apnoea. You can find more information by visiting our practice or at http://www.obu.ch.
