The Sleep Apnea and Oral Health Connection
- Posted on: Aug 15 2024
Sleep apnea is not just a disruptive sleep disorder. It’s a condition that can also impact your general and oral health.
Dr. Paul Covell – a member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and Greater Houston Dental Society – works hard to help patients understand the link between sleep apnea and oral health.
Learn more about this connection and the role dentists can play in diagnosing and managing sleep apnea below.
How Sleep Apnea Affects Oral Health
One of the main ways sleep apnea affects oral health is through dry mouth.
Frequent pauses in breathing often lead to open-mouth breathing during sleep. This can cause a decrease in saliva production.
Saliva is essential for neutralizing acids in the mouth and washing away food particles. Because of this, a dry mouth can increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Another common oral health issue linked to sleep apnea is bruxism, or teeth grinding.
Many individuals with sleep apnea grind their teeth during the night. This can lead to tooth wear, increased sensitivity, and even fractures.
Bruxism can also contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. These can cause jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing.
The Role of a Dentist in Diagnosing and Managing Sleep Apnea
Given the strong connection between sleep apnea and oral health, involving a dentist in your care is crucial.
Dentists like Dr. Paul Covell are uniquely positioned to identify signs of sleep apnea during routine dental exams. For example, tooth wear from bruxism, signs of dry mouth, and TMJ issues can all signal the presence of sleep apnea.
If sleep apnea is suspected, Dr. Covell can offer a range of treatments to manage the condition, including oral appliance therapy. This treatment involves wearing a custom-made device that repositions the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep.
Improve Your Oral Health by Addressing Sleep Apnea
Treating sleep apnea enhances your quality of sleep and positively impacts your oral health. Addressing the root cause can reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and jaw pain.
If you’re experiencing sleep apnea symptoms or have concerns about its impact, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Paul Covell today to explore your options. Call (713) 943-9832 or request an appointment online.
Posted in: Sleep Apnea
