What does sleep apnoea mean?
Repeated pauses or markedly reduced breathing during sleep. In the obstructive form, the upper airway is affected.
← All explanationsSleep apnoea
When might snoring mean something more?
In sleep apnoea, breathing repeatedly stops or is markedly reduced during sleep. In the common obstructive form, the upper airway narrows or closes. Suspected breathing pauses should be assessed by a doctor.
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The airway can close
In obstructive sleep apnoea, the upper airway repeatedly narrows or becomes blocked during sleep. This can affect breathing, oxygen supply and restful sleep.
Warning signs are not a diagnosis
Witnessed breathing pauses, gasping at night or marked daytime sleepiness are reasons for medical assessment. Snoring alone does not prove sleep apnoea.
Treatment follows assessment
Sleep investigations establish the type and severity. Depending on the findings, options may include breathing therapy or a suitable mandibular advancement device. Effectiveness must be checked.
At a glance
Which signs should be taken seriously?
Witnessed breathing pauses, gasping and marked daytime sleepiness. Snoring alone does not allow a diagnosis.
How is it assessed?
By a doctor through medical history and sleep investigations. Treatment and follow-up depend on the type and severity of the breathing disorder.
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Often confused
Snoring or sleep apnoea?
Snoring is a breathing sound. Sleep apnoea involves repeated disruption of breathing. Both can occur together, but loudness does not distinguish them.
Quick answers
Can sleep apnoea be identified from snoring?
Not reliably. Loudness or a phone recording is not enough for a diagnosis. Witnessed breathing pauses and marked daytime sleepiness should be discussed with a doctor.
Are there different types?
Yes. In the obstructive form, the airway is narrowed or blocked. In the central form, the control of breathing is impaired. Treatment depends on the type.
Does every anti-snoring device help with sleep apnoea?
No. A mandibular advancement device may be suitable for selected people with obstructive sleep apnoea. Medical assessment, a dental suitability check and effectiveness checks are necessary.
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For your consultation
A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Which sleep investigations are needed, and which dental questions would need assessment for an oral appliance?
A dental assessment can establish the conditions in the mouth. Sleep apnoea also requires medical assessment and ongoing care.
Please have breathing pauses or marked daytime sleepiness assessed by a doctor. You can contact us with dental questions about an oral appliance.
Discuss questions about an oral applianceArrange an appointment with the practiceLearning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge
Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.
- Obstruction
- Narrowing or blockage. In obstructive sleep apnoea, this repeatedly affects the upper airway during sleep.
- Apnoea
- A pause in breathing; its significance is assessed through sleep investigations in the context of the overall findings.
- Hypopnoea
- A measurable reduction in breathing. These events also contribute to the sleep assessment.
Know the difference
Obstructive events result from an impaired airway; central events involve disturbed respiratory drive. Treatment must distinguish between them.
Sources for further learning
Sources and context
Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.