Sleep apnea is a disorder in which an individual’s breathing starts and stops throughout the night. This can lead to snoring, a poor night’s rest, and other health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and daytime fatigue. Dentists also have concerns regarding sleep apnea as this disorder can negatively affect your oral health in the following ways. 

3 Ways Sleep Apnea Impacts Your Dental Health

1. Bruxism

Medical researchers have found a connection between sleep apnea and bruxism, or teeth grinding, at night. Bruxism is often a body’s stress response to breathing airway resistance, so patients with this disorder may experience cracked teeth or worn enamel from grinding. However, a dentist can fix the damage with cosmetic dentistry procedures such as veneers and fillings. After treatment, your oral health team can also fit you with a custom mouthguard to prevent these issues going forward. 

2. Jaw Pain

In addition to teeth grinding, sleep apnea can also cause clenching of the jaw. The overuse and repetitive clenching of the jaw bone can result in on-going pain, difficulty chewing, popping sounds when you open your mouth, and TMJ disorder that your dentist can address with a mouthguard, muscle relaxants, or possibly surgery, depending on the severity of the issue. 

3. Dry Mouth

Individuals with sleep apnea tend to breathe through their mouths when sleeping. As such, studies have found that patients with this condition often wake up with dry mouths. This condition can lead to a wide range of oral health issues, since saliva neutralizes acidity, maintains healthy soft tissues, and washes away food debris and bacteria. Have your dentist address these issues to protect you from tooth decay.

If you’re experiencing jaw pain, teeth grinding, or dry mouth due to sleep apnea and you need treatment from an experienced, compassionate dentist, J. David Fisher Jr., DDS can help. This family dentistry practice has been treating residents throughout Sanford, Lee, Harnett, and Moore County, NC, using modern technology and innovative techniques since 1984. For more information on their comprehensive services and commitment to helping patients maintain healthy smiles at any age, visit their website, and call (919) 776-0741 to schedule your first appointment.