The Connection Between Sleep Apnea and Dental Health

Understanding the link between sleep apnea and dental health is more important than ever. Sleep apnea causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can affect more than just your rest—it can show up in your mouth. Dentists are often the first to notice signs of this condition.

One of the most common clues dentists spot is bruxism, or teeth grinding. As Tissue Town Smiles explains, “those with sleep apnea may experience increased risk for dental conditions like TMJ disorders, bruxism, and mouth breathing.” Grinding wears down enamel and can lead to jaw pain and headaches.

Another red flag is TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. People with sleep apnea are often twice as likely to have TMJ issues as those without it, likely because of the strain and muscle clenching during interrupted breathing cycles.

Beyond teeth grinding and jaw pain, sleep apnea can affect soft tissues in your mouth. Dry mouth, often caused by mouth breathing through the night, can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Regular dental exams can catch these warning signs early.

The good news is that dental treatment plays a key role in managing sleep apnea. According to the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, “Oral appliance therapy is proven effective for the treatment of mild, moderate, or severe sleep apnea and snoring” aglowdentalstudio.comdentalsleep.org+3dentalsleep.org+3aadsm.org+3. These custom-made mouthpieces help keep your airway open during sleep while avoiding the bulk of CPAP machines.

Dentists trained in oral appliance therapy not only identify early indicators like worn teeth or TMJ pain, but they also collaborate with sleep specialists to design treatment plans. This teamwork ensures that every case is handled with expertise and care.

If you or a loved one grinds teeth at night, has jaw discomfort, or wakes up tired despite getting rest, it might be more than just sleep; it could be sleep apnea. Talk to your dentist. With early detection and oral appliance therapy, you could protect both your sleep and your smile.

Sources:
https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-apnea-and-oral-health-4587690
https://dentalsleep.org/?utm_source