Snoring and upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) are part of the spectrum of sleep-disordered breathing. While they may not always meet the diagnostic criteria for obstructive sleep apnea, they can significantly affect sleep quality, daytime functioning, and overall health.
More Than Just Snoring
Snoring occurs when airflow through the upper airway becomes partially obstructed, causing the soft tissues of the throat to vibrate during sleep. Although often dismissed as merely a nuisance, chronic snoring may indicate increased airway resistance and can be an early warning sign of more significant sleep-disordered breathing.
Upper airway resistance syndrome is characterized by increased resistance to airflow during sleep that disrupts normal sleep architecture without producing the complete airway collapse seen in obstructive sleep apnea.
Common Symptoms
- Loud or chronic snoring
- Unrefreshing sleep despite adequate time in bed
- Excessive daytime fatigue or sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
- Frequent nighttime awakenings
- A bed partner reporting restless or noisy sleep
Our Treatment Approach
Following an appropriate medical evaluation and diagnosis, custom oral appliance therapy can be an effective treatment option for many patients with snoring or upper airway resistance syndrome. Oral appliances work by gently repositioning the lower jaw during sleep to help maintain a more open airway.
Each appliance is custom fabricated using digital impressions and is carefully adjusted over time to maximize effectiveness while maintaining comfort.
Comprehensive Care
Successful treatment often involves more than simply providing an oral appliance. We evaluate contributing factors such as airway anatomy, nasal obstruction, body weight, sleep position, jaw function, and overall oral health to help achieve the best possible outcome.
When appropriate, we coordinate care with sleep physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure patients receive comprehensive, evidence-based management for their sleep-related breathing disorder.