Sleep apnea is a condition that causes people to stop breathing while they sleep which results in loud and obnoxious snoring.   The lack of breath comes from the muscles in ones throat that loosen up and collapse in on the airway, blocking proper airflow.  Not only is this condition very annoying for both the victim and the victims partner, but it can potentially also be life threatening.  The good news is that there are many sleep apnea treatment options available: the most common is the CPAP machine, however this for some people is too uncomfortable to wear at night so many people opt for an oral appliance.  An oral appliance holds the tongue back allowing the air to flow through properly, therefore stopping the snoring.