Link Between Sleep Apnea And Dental Health
At the Center for TMJ & Sleep Apnea Solutions NW, we are passionate about helping patients who struggle with sleep apnea. If you are unfamiliar, sleep apnea is a serious condition where your breathing is affected while you sleep. It is not uncommon for those who suffer to stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep. We often speak of the importance of treating sleep apnea and how failure to follow through with treatment can lead to serious complications with your overall health. You may be surprised to learn that sleep apnea coupled with not getting enough quality sleep each night can negatively affect your oral health.
Better Sleep Leads to Better Oral Health
While you sleep, your body and mind are recharging themselves to tackle the next day. If you’re not getting plenty of quality sleep, it can lead to problems such as moodiness, exhaustion, and even falling asleep at less-than-ideal times. When not treated, sleep apnea can also lead to serious health complications such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Your sleep patterns can also affect your oral health. It is possible that sleep apnea can lead to problems such as:
Tooth Decay
One dental problem that can arise when you suffer from sleep apnea is tooth decay. One common symptom of sleep apnea is mouth breathing. When you breathe through your mouth, it can cause dry mouth. Dry mouth occurs when there is a lack of saliva. You need saliva to help rinse away lingering food and bacteria from your mouth. When there is not enough saliva, bacteria accumulate on the teeth, leading to tooth decay.
Bruxism
If you have restless nights, your body may become tense, which may lead to bruxism. Bruxism is a condition in which people clench and grind their teeth, commonly during sleep. It can lead to oral health complications such as severely worn teeth, sensitive teeth, and cracked teeth. Bruxism is also a common symptom for those who suffer from TMD.
If you think that you or a loved one is suffering from sleep apnea, we are happy to help. Be sure to contact one of our two offices, which are located in Silverdale and Auburn, WA, to schedule an appointment. If you feel that your oral health has been compromised due to sleep apnea, be sure to reach out to your dental office as soon as possible.
