Having sleep apnea isn't easy for its sufferers, especially since many people go undiagnosed with this condition. If you share a bed or bedroom with someone on a regular basis, chances are you know from them how terrible your snoring may sound. Getting your sleep apnea treated is a must in order to protect your health and to reduce the sound of your snoring, but many significant others end up being bothered by the most common solution, too. So what can you do if you don't want to bother them and need help?

The Problem With CPAP Machines

CPAP machines are like the gold standard for treating sleep apnea. These devices force air through your windpipe all through the night, helping to hold it open so that you can inhale and exhale normally. For most people, it's a good solution, but it has its downsides, especially for anyone trying to sleep near you.

While chances are that the sound of your snoring was worse, most CPAP machines make a fair deal of noise. This may mean that even if you're sleeping better, anyone you're sharing a room or bed with may still be struggling. Poor quality sleep can lead to all kinds of emotional and behavioral issues, making it tougher to maintain a relationship, so it's a good idea to try and find a solution that protects your health without disturbing your partner.

Getting Help

The good news is that while CPAP machines were once pretty much the only option for people with sleep apnea, that's no longer the case. Nowadays, there are special appliances that your local dentist can help you with that will give you the open airway you need at night without disturbing anyone else in the process.

Dentists can help with this in a surprisingly easy way. They're able to make a sleep apnea oral appliance that's custom-fit just for you. This appliance is designed to gently pull your lower jaw forward during your sleep. This puts tension on your throat and keeps the muscles and tissues from collapsing inward, which blocks off your airway. This appliance is particularly popular not only because it can be used without electricity and when you're away from home without having to lug a machine around, but also because it makes no noise to disturb your partner. You'll be safe when you sleep, and their sleep quality will likely improve, too.

For more information on sleep apnea oral appliance therapy, contact a dentist in your area.