What is this?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during the night. The main forms are obstructive apnea, caused by relaxation of the throat muscles, and central apnea, due to a lack of signals from the brain to breathe. Symptoms include snoring, frequent awakenings, and excessive fatigue during the day. This disorder can lead to serious complications, such as cardiovascular disease. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, the use of CPAP devices, or, in some cases, surgery.
The impact on oral health
Dry mouth
People with sleep apnea often breathe through their mouths at night, which can lead to dry mouth. This increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and mouth infections.
Bruxism
Patients may also experience bruxism (teeth grinding) due to sleep apnea. This can cause tooth damage, premature wear, and jaw pain.
Inflammation of the gums
Sleep apnea is linked to systemic inflammation, which can exacerbate oral health problems, including gum disease.
General health problem
Complications of sleep apnea, such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, can also impact oral health, affecting blood flow and tissue healing.
We are pleased to inform you that our dental clinic offers specialized consultations for sleep apnea. If you suffer from symptoms such as snoring, breathing pauses during the night or excessive fatigue during the day, our dental health professionals are here to help you.
We offer a comprehensive assessment of your situation and can guide you to the right treatment options, whether that’s dental appliances, lifestyle recommendations or referrals to other specialists if needed. Your oral health and overall well-being are our priority.
Please feel free to schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns and find out how we can support you in managing your sleep apnea. Together, we will work to improve your quality of life and your sleep.