The Impact of Sleep Apnea on Oral Health
"Innocent" snoring may be hiding very serious consequences for your teeth and oral health. Sleep apnea can leave a person feeling exhausted and zapped of energy because they are waking up between 10 and 30 times per hour. However, most people aren't aware that the obstructive patterns of sleep apnea can also negatively impact your teeth, jaw, and gum tissue. At Jutkowitz Periodontics & Implantology, we routinely help patients struggling with the effects of sleep apnea. Here's what you need to know to protect your oral health.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep that deprives you of oxygen until your body "startles awake" to begin breathing again. Here are some telltale signs that you may be affected by it:
- You wake up each morning with a headache.
- You feel exhausted in the morning.
- A partner has told you that you snore, gasp, and choke in your sleep. They may have even moved to another room to avoid the disruptions.
- You have woken up in the night gasping for air.
- You routinely wake up with a dry mouth or sore throat.
If you've recently been diagnosed with hypertension, sleep apnea could be the cause. In addition to raising blood pressure, sleep apnea can also increase risks for stroke and other cardiovascular issues.
Sleep Apnea's Impact on Your Oral Health
Sleep apnea can completely change your mouth's microbiome. Here's a look at what's at stake.
1. Sleep Apnea Causes Dry Mouth
Why is this a big deal? Dry mouth reduces production of the saliva our mouths count on for natural defense against bacteria. Low saliva can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and chronic bad breath. The risk for dry mouth is higher if you're addressing sleep apnea using a CPAP machine that lacks proper humidification.
2. Sleep Apnea Can Make You Grind Your Teeth (Bruxism)
Bruxism wears down teeth over time. In addition to making your teeth duller, grinding your teeth can also lead to chips and cracks. People who grind their teeth for extended periods are also likely to experience headaches, jaw pain and soreness, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. The good news is that a custom night guard or oral appliance will usually be enough to protect your teeth and help restore sleep.
3. Sleep Apnea Increases Risks for Gum Disease
Researchers believe there's a link between periodontitis (gum disease) and sleep apnea. The combination of poor sleep and reduced oxygen levels can trigger the body's inflammatory response. Over time, this increases inflammation and weakens the immune system to create the perfect storm for gum disease.
Your Dentist Can Help You Stop Sleep Apnea From Destroying Your Oral Health
There's a lot your dentist can do to help you save your oral health if you suffer from sleep apnea. At Jutkowitz Periodontics & Implantology, we look for signs of sleep apnea during all routine visits. We can also provide special screenings for sleep apnea if you're suffering from symptoms. If it turns out that you do have signs of sleep apnea, we can offer you a custom oral appliance that keeps your airways open while you're asleep. We also offer a number of noninvasive treatments for TMJ pain and bruxism.
Your sleep quality greatly impacts both your overall health and your oral health. Make sure you're working with a dentist who understands the connection! If you're concerned about sleep apnea, book a consultation with Jutkowitz Periodontics & Implantology by visiting www.drjutkowitz.com or calling (516) 240-9072 today!
