Sleep Apnea & Snoring

With the National Sleep Foundation estimating that up to half of the U.S. population snores, it might seem like something too normal to be worth mentioning to a doctor, let alone a dentist. However, snoring happens when the airway is obstructed during sleep, whether by the tongue or the soft tissues in the mouth. In many cases, snoring is a symptom of sleep apnea, which has a variety of negative effects on the body that range from fatigue all the way to cardiovascular problems. 

A snoring habit is often paired with mouth breathing, which leaves the mouth dry and more vulnerable to the bacteria responsible for tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Acid erosion of tooth enamel and grinding or clenching may also indicate a sleep issue. You might be surprised to learn that a dentist is one of the best people to help with snoring-related issues. If you or someone in your household snores regularly, give us a call or text us at (406) 257-5696 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Jarvis can assess the impact poor sleep may be having on your dental and overall health. We can also arrange a test for sleep apnea.