Why Do People Snore?

Snoring affects nearly one-third of the population and can result from a variety of causes including age, sleep position, sinus congestion, and excess weight. While often brushed off as a minor annoyance, chronic snoring can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

According to a UCLA School of Dentistry study, “The struggle for breath can result in soaring blood pressure, which can damage the wall of the carotid arteries and increase the risk of stroke.” That’s why addressing snoring is not just about quieting the noise—it’s about improving your quality of life and protecting your health.

Silent Nite® SL Oral Appliance

Our practice offers the Silent Nite® SL, a custom-made oral appliance that gently moves the lower jaw forward during sleep. This opens the airway and reduces the vibration of soft tissues in the throat—minimizing or eliminating snoring altogether.

• Comfortable, lightweight, and easy to wear
• Non-invasive alternative to CPAP or surgery
• Custom-fitted by Dr. Shirley for optimal results
• Portable—perfect for travel

This FDA-cleared device offers a simple solution to a disruptive and potentially dangerous problem. Most patients report significant improvement in both snoring and sleep quality within the first few nights of use.

Is It Just Snoring or Sleep Apnea?

If your snoring is accompanied by gasping, choking, or long pauses in breathing during sleep, you may be experiencing symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). This serious condition increases your risk for heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and fatigue-related accidents.

Dr. Shirley can evaluate your symptoms and refer you for a sleep study if needed. Early intervention is key, and oral appliance therapy may be part of your solution—either on its own or in combination with a CPAP device.