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30 Many of us understand how frustrating it is to have our sleep ruined by someone who snores loudly and incessantly. What we may not know is that the person snoring is not getting a good night's sleep, either. Although it seems like they're in restful slumber, unaware that they're keeping someone else awake, snorers are actually having a very disturbed sleep—and it's significantly unhealthy. Snoring means that the airway may be blocked; a person may wake up multiple times a night but not even realize it. Snoring itself may be a precursor to more significant issues like sleep apnea, which is linked to high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetic tendencies, autoimmune issues, weight problems, erectile dysfunction and even depression and anxiety. Dr. Daniela Sever, a general dental practitioner, has always been fascinated by the study of sleep. She has long understood that sleep is not a luxury, but a necessity. The importance of sleep to our health and well-being cannot be overstated. When her own sleep became interrupted by her husband's snoring, she knew from her own dental expertise that a mouthpiece could help. The first time he wore it, she was up all night—because it was too quiet. Meanwhile, her husband said he had never slept so well! Already an accomplished dentist who earned her degree from Harvard School of Dental Medicine and completed her residency at the Boston V.A. Hospital, Dr. Sever began studying dental sleep medicine. She went on to become board certified by the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and achieved Diplomate Status, which has been afforded to only a handful of practitioners in Massachusetts. Her practice, Great Sleep Dental PC, is dedicated to helping patients get diagnosed and to treating their sleep issues. It is conveniently located on Main Street in Weymouth and is accredited by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. It is easy to tell if someone else has a sleep issue, because you can hear their snoring. You may also hear symptoms of sleep apnea, such as choking sounds or gasps for breath. People with sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly during their sleep, sometimes hundreds of times, which means their brain and body may not get enough oxygen. Upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS), in which the upper airway narrows during sleep, is another disorder that compromises the quality of sleep and can leave you dragging during the day. Getting a Good Night's Sleep is Easier Than You Think By Erica Ford, photography by Susanne Malloy