You may have never heard of oral appliance therapy, but it can be a lifesaver if you have been told or already know you're a snorer or live with someone who snores. Here are three major reasons why you need to consider oral appliance therapy:

1. Snoring can be indicative of a bigger problem

Aside from being a nuisance for your partner or family members, snoring can also be a warning sign of something serious. Snoring is caused by breathing problems while sleeping, and although it could be something as simple as congestion, it could be worse. Sleep apnea is a major cause of snoring, and 80 percent of those afflicted with sleep apnea don’t even know it. If you ever wake up gasping for breath, or if you find yourself incredibly sleepy during the day, despite getting a normal amount of sleep, you may have sleep apnea.

2. It will work!

Regardless of whether or not you have sleep apnea, an oral appliance will definitely help you stop snoring. There are two types of oral appliance therapy: a Mandibular Repositioning Device and a Tongue Retaining Device. The devices work in slightly different ways (you can find out how here, but both of them accomplish the same goal: They marginally adjust the spacing inside your mouth to open up your airway, allowing you to breathe easier while you sleep).

3. Your dentist can easily take care of it for you

Whenever considering an unconventional treatment, many people are concerned they will need to see a specialist or go out of their way for treatment. But many dentists provide oral appliance therapy. Your dentist should be able to create an oral appliance specifically for you, fitting it to your teeth and jaw. And if your own dentist provides the appliance, they can also help you if it ever needs an adjustment.

If you’re tired of dealing with snoring, click here to find out more about oral appliance therapy. Hopefully this will help you get a better understanding of all the snoring treatments you may consider.