Treatments for sleep apnoea: taking care of your dental health and your sleep

Sleep apnoea is a condition that goes beyond the simple interruption of sleep.

Its effects can extend to your dental health and overall well-being. In this article, we will explore in detail how sleep apnoea can affect your oral health, discuss the various treatment options available, such as oral appliances, and highlight the importance of collaboration between dentists and doctors to address sleep apnoea comprehensively and effectively.

How sleep apnoea affects dental health

Sleep apnoea doesn’t just cause daytime sleepiness and constant fatigue; it can also have negative impacts on your dental health. People with sleep apnoea tend to snore and breathe through their mouths. This breathing pattern can lead to a number of dental problems:

Dry Mouth: Constant mouth breathing at night can reduce saliva production, which, in turn, increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Saliva plays an important role in neutralising the acids produced by bacteria, helping to protect teeth and gums.

Bruxism: Many people with sleep apnoea also experience bruxism, the grinding or clenching of teeth during sleep. Bruxism can cause tooth wear, fractures and pain in the jaw, which can have a long-term negative impact on tooth structure.

Treatment options such as oral appliances

Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available for sleep apnoea sufferers. One of the most common and comfortable approaches is oral appliances, also known as splints or braces. These devices are worn during sleep and are designed to keep the airway open by positioning the jaw and tongue in a way that prevents obstruction. Oral appliances are especially useful for people who cannot tolerate CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) treatment because of their comfort and ease of use.

Collaboration with physicians to address sleep apnoea

A comprehensive approach to sleep apnoea requires close collaboration between dentists and physicians specialising in sleep disorders. Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the severity of the condition and the choice of appropriate treatment. Collaboration between medical and dental professionals allows for a holistic approach, ensuring that patients receive the most effective and personalised care.

Conclusion

Sleep apnoea can have effects beyond sleep disruption, affecting a person’s oral and overall health. Oral appliances have become an effective and comfortable treatment option for many patients. However, it is crucial to remember that a collaborative approach between dentists and medical specialists is essential to properly address sleep apnoea and its health effects. If you experience symptoms of sleep apnoea, such as excessive daytime sleepiness or heavy snoring, seek medical and dental care for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Your sleep and dental health go hand in hand, and addressing sleep apnoea can make a difference to both.

Your health is our priority.