At Nesconset Dental Associates, Dr. Sal Lotardo and our team are dedicated to helping you achieve better overall health through excellent dental care. One area of concern that connects oral health to your overall well-being is sleep apnea. This common condition doesn’t just affect how well you sleep; it can also impact your oral health and quality of life.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes repeated interruptions in your breathing during the night. These interruptions can last a few seconds or even longer and can happen many times throughout the night. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat relax too much, blocking your airway.
Symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Feeling tired, even after a full night’s sleep
- Difficulty concentrating during the day
If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
How Does Sleep Apnea Affect Oral Health?
Sleep apnea can have a significant impact on your oral health. Here are a few ways the two are connected.
Dry Mouth: People with sleep apnea often breathe through their mouths during sleep, which can cause dry mouth. This condition reduces saliva production, making it easier for bacteria to grow. Without enough saliva to wash away food particles and bacteria, you’re at a higher risk for cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Teeth Grinding: Many people with sleep apnea grind their teeth, a condition called bruxism. Grinding can wear down your teeth, leading to sensitivity, cracks, and even tooth loss. Bruxism can also cause jaw pain and TMJ disorders.
Gum Disease: Studies have shown a link between sleep apnea and gum disease. The inflammation caused by sleep apnea may contribute to periodontal disease, a serious gum infection that can damage your gums and the bones that support your teeth.
How Can Nesconset Dental Associates Help?
At Nesconset Dental Associates, we offer solutions to help manage sleep apnea and its effects on your oral health. Here’s how we can help:
Oral Appliance Therapy
One effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is a custom-fitted oral appliance. These appliances are similar to a mouthguard or retainer and are designed to keep your airway open while you sleep. They gently reposition your jaw or tongue to prevent airway blockages, allowing you to breathe more easily.
Bruxism Treatment
If you grind your teeth, we can provide a custom nightguard to protect your teeth from further damage. This device also helps reduce jaw pain and discomfort caused by grinding.
Routine Dental Care
Regular checkups allow us to monitor your oral health and address any problems early. If you have dry mouth or gum disease due to sleep apnea, we can recommend treatments to protect your smile.
Collaboration with Your Doctor
Sleep apnea often requires a team approach. We’ll work closely with your physician or sleep specialist to ensure you get the best possible care.
Take Control of Your Health
Sleep apnea is more than just a sleep problem—it’s a condition that can affect your entire body, including your oral health. At Nesconset Dental Associates, Dr. Sal Lotardo and our team are here to help you manage sleep apnea and protect your smile.
If you suspect you have sleep apnea or are experiencing symptoms like snoring, grinding, or dry mouth, don’t wait to seek help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Together, we can find the right solutions to improve your sleep, oral health, and overall well-being!