What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when airflow repeatedly stops for periods of ten seconds or longer. The brain senses lack of oxygen and tells the body to breathe. People with sleep apnea may experience hundreds of these episodes each night and are most likely unaware that it’s happening.

What causes sleep apnea?
When you sleep, the muscles that control your tongue and throat relax. Tissues can sag and restrict airflow, which causes the apnea episode. Sleep apnea sufferers often snore as well, because tissues vibrate as air is forced through narrowed passageways.

Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea and snoring could be treated with an easy-to-wear mouth guard (snore guard) that keeps the chin slightly forward to promote optimal airflow. There are a variety of mouth guards available on the market today, and Dr. Spigner can help you choose one that is most appropriate for you.