Your Calgary Invisalign® Provider
Sleep apnea is a serious condition where an individual stops breathing repeatedly during their sleep. Left untreated, the continuous disruption in sleep can dramatically increase a person's chance of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, type two diabetes, weight gain, and strokes.
Fortunately, there has been increasing awareness of sleep apnea and people are starting to become more educated about its impact on their oral health. But what's the connection between sleep apnea and airway problems, and why would your dentist care? We'll delve into that more today.
Why would my dentist care if I snore?
While nightly snoring can certainly disrupt your family's sleep, it can also mean a more restless sleep for you and be linked to numerous oral health issues.
Snoring can point to an obstructed airway, which is a hallmark symptom of sleep apnea. Snoring can also happen in conjunction with teeth grinding or clenching while you sleep. Because the oral cavity and throat are directly connected, any issues or obstructions in the airway will impact changes in the mouth that your dentist may notice during your hygiene appointments and checkups.
Who is at risk for sleep apnea?
While sleep apnea can become a problem for anyone, older men are most commonly affected. However, if you often feel exhausted, suffer from headaches, toothaches, or jaw aches, or have one or more of these risk factors, you may be at increased risk:
- Over 40
- You have recently had a stroke
- You have congestive heart failure
- Drink alcohol regularly
- Chronic nasal congestion
- Obese or overweight
- Take narcotics
- Smoke
What oral health issues are associated with snoring and sleep apnea?
If you have a problem with the way your airway functions, it's important to have the health of your teeth checked for any signs of these oral health problems associated with sleep apnea:
- Mouth sores
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Plaque buildup
- Tooth decay
- Gingivitis
- Grinding (bruxism)
- Dry Mouth
If you are concerned about your oral health, please book an appointment. We can assess your teeth and overall oral health and develop a preventive treatment plan to suit your needs.
