Snoring · Sandgate, North Brisbane
Snoring Treatment with Custom Oral Appliances
Loud or regular snoring can disturb your sleep and your partner's. For suitable patients, a custom-made oral appliance worn during sleep may help. Because snoring can also be a sign of sleep apnoea, we look at the bigger picture first.
- Custom-made appliances
- Works with your GP
- No referral needed to book
- Master's in Sleep Medicine
Could it be sleep apnoea?
Pauses in breathing, gasping or heavy daytime tiredness need a medical sleep assessment.
Sleep apnoea →Know the difference
Snoring or sleep apnoea?
Snoring happens when soft tissues in the throat vibrate as air passes through a narrowed airway. Obstructive sleep apnoea is different: the airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep, disrupting breathing and oxygen levels. Snoring alone cannot tell you which you have, so these signs are worth checking.
01
Loud snoring
Snoring that others notice regularly.
02
Pauses in breathing
A partner sees you stop breathing or gasp.
03
Daytime tiredness
Waking unrefreshed or feeling sleepy during the day.
04
Morning symptoms
Morning headaches, a dry mouth or grinding at night.
Oral appliances
How a snoring appliance works
A mandibular advancement splint is a custom-made device worn during sleep. It holds the lower jaw slightly forward, which can help keep the airway open.
It may reduce snoring in many patients, but it does not work for everyone and some people find it hard to tolerate.
Who may be suitable
People who snore without sleep apnoea, and some people with sleep apnoea when advised by their doctor.
Who may not be suitable
People with untreated gum disease, loose teeth, too few healthy teeth, or significant jaw joint pain or limited jaw movement.
Possible side effects
Jaw, muscle or tooth soreness, extra saliva or a dry mouth. Bite changes can occur over time, so regular review is important.
What to expect
Your snoring assessment
There are usually a few appointments, and we explain each step.
Consultation
Dr Bachour reviews your sleep history, general health and any sleep study report, and examines your teeth, jaw and airway.
Records
Scans and records are taken to design your appliance. 3D CBCT imaging is used when clinically indicated.
Fitting
Your appliance is fitted and checked, and we explain how to wear and care for it.
Review
Regular review is recommended. Contact us if you notice persistent pain or changes in your bite.
Over-the-counter snoring devices are not made from scans of your teeth or assessed by a dentist first.
Who you will see
Snoring assessments with Dr Andrew Bachour
Dr Andrew Bachour holds a master's degree in Sleep Medicine and has advanced training in sleep breathing disorders. He works alongside your GP or sleep physician where needed.
Meet Dr Andrew Bachour
Dr Andrew Bachour
Principal Dentist
BDSc (Hons, UQ). Master's degrees in Sleep Medicine and in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopaedics. General dentist registered with Ahpra (DEN0000972458).
Questions
Snoring questions
Is snoring the same as sleep apnoea?
No. Snoring is the sound of soft tissues in the throat vibrating during sleep. Sleep apnoea is a breathing disorder where the airway repeatedly narrows or closes. Many people with sleep apnoea snore, but not everyone who snores has sleep apnoea.
Can a dental appliance help with snoring?
A custom mandibular advancement splint may reduce snoring for many patients, but results vary and it does not suit everyone. We assess whether one is suitable for you.
Should I see my GP first?
If you snore loudly, stop breathing or gasp during sleep, or feel very tired during the day, see your GP, as it could be sleep apnoea. It helps to bring any sleep study report to your appointment.
Can I buy a snoring mouthguard online?
Over-the-counter devices are not made from scans of your teeth and are not assessed by a dentist first. If you snore loudly or stop breathing in your sleep, see your GP.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book an assessment without a referral by calling (07) 3269 2064.
Is snoring affecting your sleep?
Call our Sandgate clinic to book an assessment, and bring any sleep study report from your doctor.