Waking up exhausted after a restless sleep can have a damaging impact on your mental clarity for the entire day. If you’ve experienced or have been told you frequently snore at night, you could be one of the 39 million Americans dealing with sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep. While daytime fatigue is a common symptom, many are unaware of the underlying cause of their sleep issues, along with the connection between sleep apnea and oral health.
At Journal Square Dental, our experienced dental team is here to help you with your oral health and its ties to sleep apnea. With regular dental checkups, professional advice, and thorough cleanings, we aim to give you peace of mind, knowing that your smile and sleep are in good hands.
What Are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea often goes unnoticed because many people aren’t aware of what happens while they sleep. Usually, nighttime symptoms are reported by a sleep partner or family member. However, there are some common signs you can look out for during the day and night.
Daytime and nighttime symptoms may include:
- Excessive sleepiness: If you feel constantly tired despite getting enough sleep, it could be due to poor-quality rest caused by sleep apnea.
- Difficulty concentrating: Lack of restorative sleep can impair one’s ability to focus, making tasks that require mental clarity more challenging.
- Loud snoring: Not everyone who snores suffers from sleep apnea, but consistent, loud snoring is a crucial indicator.
- Gasping or choking during sleep: If you’ve been told you stop breathing during sleep or wake up gasping for air, this is a clear sign you may have sleep apnea.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with a professional. Journal Square Dental is equipped to offer insights into how your oral health could be contributing to sleep apnea.
How Sleep Apnea Impacts Your Oral Health
Sleep apnea, particularly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when the muscles in the throat relax too much, causing temporary airway blockages. When your breathing is disrupted, your body compensates by clenching or grinding your teeth – an action known as bruxism – which can wear down your teeth over time.
Here’s how sleep apnea can impact oral health:
- Teeth grinding: People with sleep apnea often experience bruxism, which can lead to tooth wear, fractures, or tooth loss.
- Dry mouth: Constant snoring or breathing through your mouth can cause dry mouth, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Gum inflammation: The stress on your body from sleep apnea can also cause inflammation, impacting your gums and oral health.
When addressing sleep apnea, it’s important to consider oral health, as it can serve as both a symptom and a contributor to the disorder.
How Dentists Can Help Manage Sleep Apnea
While sleep apnea may initially seem like a condition you’d address with a sleep specialist, dentists play a significant role in its diagnosis and treatment. Many dentists, including our team at Journal Square Dental, are trained to spot the early signs of sleep apnea during regular checkups.
Here’s how your dentist can help manage sleep apnea:
- Custom oral appliances: A dentist can fit you with a custom-made oral appliance that repositions your jaw and opens your airway during sleep, reducing snoring and apnea episodes.
- Monitoring teeth grinding: If you’re grinding your teeth due to sleep apnea, your dentist can provide a night guard to protect from damage.
- Collaborating with sleep specialists: Dentists work in tandem with sleep doctors to ensure comprehensive care, which might include CPAP machines, lifestyle changes, or surgical options.
Our team at Journal Square Dental takes a holistic approach to your well-being, ensuring that any oral appliances or treatments we recommend are tailored to your specific needs.
Improve Your Sleep and Oral Health With Journal Square Dental
Sleep apnea can have serious effects on sleep and overall health. At Journal Square Dental, we specialize in understanding the connection between oral health and sleep apnea. Our dedicated team is here to provide personalized care that addresses both your dental needs and sleep concerns.
If you suspect that sleep apnea may affect your oral or overall health, don’t wait to take action. Contact us today at (201) 431-0288 or book an appointment online to take the first step towards better sleep and a healthier smile.
