New device cuts down on noise.

Snoring loudly affects up to 30% of the U.S. population, especially older men. The condition becomes so severe in about 30% of snorers that obstructive sleep apnea syndrome may develop. Symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, forgetfulness, and irritability. When severe, it can lead to high blood pressure and heart failure.

Many people do not seek help because they fear surgery or other options that are objectionable. A new option is a variety of noninvasive dental devices developed to treat snoring and the sleep apnea that can result. One is the SNOAR (sleep and nocturnal obstructive apnea reducing) dental appliance, a custom-made, acrylic and wire device that gently pulls the jaw forward and opens the mouth slightly. In preliminary studies, it controlled snoring in more than 90% of patients and produced little strain on the teeth and jaw joints. SNOAR was effective in reducing snoring and comfortable to wear. Studies at Pennsylvania State University by John R. Houck, now associate professor of otorhinolaryngology at the University of Oklahoma...