How Does Sleep Apnea Affect Your Oral Health? A Complete Guide

The Surprising Connection Between Your Sleep and Your Smile

Sleep apnea, a disorder that interrupts your breathing while you sleep, doesn’t just make you feel tired. It can also have a direct impact on your oral health, causing problems you might not associate with your rest. Understanding this connection is the first step to protecting both your sleep and your smile.

At Palmetto Sleep, we collaborate with oral health professionals to offer you a comprehensive approach. If your dentist suspects apnea, we’re here to guide you on the path to diagnosis and treatment.

Oral Health Problems Related to Sleep Apnea

The symptoms of sleep apnea often manifest in your mouth in ways you can notice.

• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Bruxism is a common reaction to the effort you make to breathe during apnea. This constant grinding can wear down your teeth, causing jaw pain and headaches.
• Chronic Dry Mouth and Sore Throat: Mouth breathing is a common symptom of apnea and causes chronic dryness. This is not only uncomfortable but also increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
• Inflammation and Gum Disease: Mouth breathing can also cause inflammation and pain in the gums, increasing the risk of infections and periodontal diseases.

Solutions and Treatments: Uniting Oral and Sleep Health

The good news is that by treating sleep apnea, you can significantly improve your oral health.

• Medical Treatment: A sleep specialist can diagnose your apnea and recommend a treatment, such as CPAP therapy or an oral device, to fix the root problem.
• Oral Devices: These custom oral appliances are an excellent option. They non-invasively keep your airways open, which can reduce bruxism and dry mouth.
• Sleep Hygiene: Complementing your treatment with good sleep habits, like a consistent schedule and a sleep-conducive environment, also helps improve your overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Should I see my dentist or a sleep specialist first? It’s best to see both. Your dentist can identify oral signs of apnea and recommend an evaluation with a sleep specialist, who is the only one who can diagnose and treat the disorder.
• Can an oral device solve both teeth grinding and sleep apnea? Yes. Oral devices designed for apnea can prevent the airways from collapsing, which in turn can reduce teeth grinding and the associated pain.
• What happens if I don’t treat my sleep apnea? Untreated sleep apnea can worsen oral problems and increase the risk of more serious conditions like hypertension, heart disease, and strokes.

Book Your Consultation and Protect Your Overall Health

Don’t let sleep problems affect your oral and general health. At Palmetto Sleep, we offer a comprehensive approach to your well-being.

Contact us today to book your consultation and take the first step toward restorative sleep and a healthier smile.