Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. These episodes can occur multiple times throughout the night, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and low blood oxygen levels.

There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and complex. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most prevalent form and occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat relax, leading to partial or complete obstruction of the airway.

Sleep apnea can lead to health complications such as high blood pressure, extreme fatigue, and even a higher risk for stroke—but how does sleep apnea impact your oral health?

Oral Health Implications of Sleep Apnea

There are a few ways that sleep apnea can affect your oral health.

• Higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease. One of the most common oral health implications of sleep apnea is dry mouth. Prolonged breathing interruptions and open- mouth breathing during sleep can lead to reduced saliva, causing dryness in the mouth. Since saliva helps protect teeth and balance bacteria, dry mouth can increase plaque accumulation, which may lead to tooth decay and gum disease [1].
• The link between teeth grinding and sleep apnea. Sleep apnea patients may experience teeth grinding (bruxism) as a result of the body’s effort to reopen the airway during breathing pauses, although the link here still isn’t fully clear [2]. Bruxism can lead to tooth wear, cracks, and jaw pain that can have a long-term impact on your smile.
• TMJ disorders. Sleep apnea has been linked to an increased risk of developing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders [3]. The strained muscles and erratic jaw movements associated with sleep apnea can contribute to TMJ pain and jaw joint dysfunction. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress resulting from sleep apnea can also impact the gums, exacerbating periodontal disease.

Preventive Measures and Treatment Options

Preventing the oral health consequences of sleep apnea involves targeted interventions. A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is a common treatment for sleep apnea.

CPAP therapy involves wearing a mask that delivers a constant flow of air to keep the airway open during sleep, reducing breathing pauses.

Additionally, mandibular advancement devices (MADs), also called oral appliances, are dental appliances that reposition the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open and can be used in mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea. Patients typically find these devices more comfortable and less obtrusive than CPAP machines [4].

Lifestyle modifications such as weight management, quitting smoking, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can also help to improve sleep apnea symptoms and mitigate its impact on oral health.

The Importance of Your Dentist in Sleep Apnea Management

Collaboration between dental professionals and sleep medicine specialists is pivotal in addressing the oral health effects of sleep apnea.

Dentists play a key role in identifying signs of sleep apnea during routine oral examinations, such as dry mouth, worn teeth, a high arched palate, or a large tongue [5]. They can also fabricate oral devices to assist in managing sleep apnea.

A multidisciplinary approach involving dentists, sleep specialists, and other healthcare providers ensures comprehensive care for patients with sleep apnea, addressing both their oral health needs and their sleep disorder.

Don’t Ignore the Signs of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can have profound implications for oral health as well as your bodily health. Recognizing the oral health impact of sleep apnea and implementing effective preventive measures and treatment options are essential in preserving oral health and overall well being.

If you suspect you have sleep apnea, don’t ignore the signs—book an appointment with your dentist today!

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8916604/
2. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-apnea/link-between-sleep-apnea-and-teeth-
grinding
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3706181/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6346846/
5. https://www.ada.org/en/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-
health-topics/sleep-apnea-obstructive