Sleep & Airway
Sleep-disordered breathing (adults)
Breathing that is disturbed during sleep, from snoring to sleep apnoea.
Range
Snoring to apnoea
Signs
Snoring, tiredness
Diagnosis
Medical, sleep study
Dental role
Some treatments
Overview
Sleep-disordered breathing covers problems with breathing during sleep. It ranges from snoring to obstructive sleep apnoea, where the airway narrows or briefly closes and breathing pauses.
Signs can include loud snoring, gasping, daytime tiredness and waking unrefreshed. A proper diagnosis is medical and may involve your doctor and a sleep study. Your dentist may notice signs and help with some treatments.
What to know
- Ranges from snoring to sleep apnoea
- Airway may narrow or close during sleep
- Can cause tiredness and poor sleep
- Diagnosis is medical and may need a sleep study
- Dental appliances are one treatment option
Common questions
Is snoring the same as sleep apnoea?
No. Snoring is common, while apnoea involves breathing pauses and needs assessment.
How is sleep apnoea diagnosed?
Through a medical review and often a sleep study, arranged by a doctor.
Can my dentist treat it?
A dentist can help with appliances for some cases, alongside your doctor.
What are the main treatments?
Options include lifestyle changes, a breathing machine, or an oral appliance.
Why does it matter?
Untreated apnoea can affect daytime alertness and general health.
Related topics
Oral appliance therapy for sleep apnoea
A custom mouth device that holds the jaw forward to ease mild sleep apnoea.
Snoring in children
Frequent loud snoring in a child can be worth having checked.
Sleep hygiene
Simple daily habits that help you fall asleep and sleep more soundly.
Bruxism (grinding & clenching)
Grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep and without knowing.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026