Snoring: Causes, Risks, and How to Finally Get a Quiet Night’s Sleep

Snoring may seem like a harmless nighttime annoyance, but it’s often a sign of an underlying issue that could be affecting your sleep quality and overall health. If you or a loved one struggle with snoring, you know how disruptive it can be—not just for the person snoring but for anyone sharing a room. But what causes snoring, what risks does it pose, and most importantly, how can you finally achieve a quiet, restful night’s sleep?

Why Do People Snore?

Snoring occurs when airflow is partially blocked as it moves through the throat during sleep. This blockage causes the surrounding tissues to vibrate, creating that all-too-familiar snoring sound. Several factors can contribute to this:

•          Airway Obstruction: Enlarged tonsils, a deviated septum, TMJ dysfunction, jaw misalignment, or excess tissue in the throat can make it harder to breathe freely. A misaligned jaw can narrow the airway, increasing the likelihood of snoring.

•          Poor Muscle Tone: When the muscles in the throat and tongue relax too much (often due to aging, alcohol, or sedatives), they can collapse and block the airway. TMJ issues can also contribute to improper tongue positioning, which may obstruct airflow.

•          Nasal Congestion: Allergies, sinus infections, or structural issues can lead to mouth breathing, increasing the likelihood of snoring.

•          Obesity: Extra weight, particularly around the neck, can put pressure on the airway and restrict airflow.

The Hidden Risks of Snoring

Snoring isn’t just a nuisance—it can have real consequences for your health and quality of life. Some of the most common risks include:

•          Chronic Fatigue – Interrupted sleep prevents you from reaching the deeper, restorative stages of sleep, leading to persistent daytime drowsiness.

•          Irritability and Mood Changes – Poor sleep quality affects emotional regulation, making you more prone to stress, anxiety, and mood swings.

•          Difficulty Concentrating – A lack of restful sleep can impair cognitive function, making it harder to focus, remember details, and stay productive.

•          Headaches – The strain of oxygen deprivation and disrupted sleep can lead to frequent headaches, particularly in the morning.

•          Jaw Pain – If TMJ dysfunction is contributing to snoring, you may also experience jaw tension, pain, or even clicking and popping sounds when you open your mouth.

•          Increased Health Risks: Snoring is often linked to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Left untreated, OSA can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

If any of these issues sound familiar, it’s time to explore treatment options that can help you breathe easier and sleep better.

How to Get a Quiet Night’s Sleep

At TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego, we take a personalized approach to snoring treatment. Rather than just addressing the symptoms, we focus on identifying the root cause of your snoring and providing tailored solutions that work for you. By understanding the underlying issues—whether it’s sleep apnea, TMJ dysfunction, or anatomical factors—we can develop a treatment plan that effectively improves your sleep quality and overall well-being.

One of the most common treatments for sleep apnea-related snoring is CPAP therapy. A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine keeps the airway open by delivering a steady stream of air, preventing obstructions that cause snoring and disrupted breathing.

For those seeking an alternative to CPAP, custom-designed sleep appliances offer a comfortable and effective solution. These oral devices reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway clear, reducing snoring and promoting better airflow. Many patients find this option more convenient and easier to use than a CPAP machine.

Another innovative treatment we offer is laser therapy, a non-invasive procedure that helps tighten the soft tissues in the throat. By strengthening these tissues, the risk of airway collapse is minimized, leading to a noticeable reduction in snoring.

Additionally, we utilize phonophoresis, a technique that uses ultrasound to enhance the delivery of anti-inflammatory medications. This treatment can help reduce muscle tension and inflammation associated with TMJ dysfunction and airway issues, further improving breathing and sleep quality.

Take the First Step Toward Better Sleep

Snoring doesn’t have to be something you or your partner just “live with.” There are real solutions available, and our team is here to help. With a range of advanced treatment options, we can create a customized plan to help you achieve restful, uninterrupted sleep.

If you’re ready to experience deeper, more restful, and quieter sleep, schedule a consultation with TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of San Diego. Visit our office in La Mesa, California, or call (619) 762-4379 to book an appointment today.