Connecting Oral Health to Restful Sleep
When you think of visiting the dentist, dental cleanings and fillings likely come to mind. However, dentists can also play a significant role in identifying potential sleep apnea—a serious sleep disorder often linked to oral health.
At the Center for Dental Sleep Health in Nashua, NH, Dr. Stephen Ura specializes in recognizing and addressing sleep-related breathing issues. If you suspect sleep apnea or experience symptoms such as fatigue, teeth grinding, or dry mouth, call our Nashua, NH, sleep clinic at (603) 237-1124 to learn how we can help you take the next step toward better sleep.
The Oral Anatomy–Sleep Apnea Connection
Dentists are uniquely positioned to detect early signs of sleep apnea due to their skill in oral and facial structures. Here’s how oral anatomy impacts sleep health:
Airway Structure and Obstruction
The size and shape of your airway can directly affect breathing during sleep. Soft tissue in the mouth and throat can collapse, blocking airflow and causing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Dentists assess your airway anatomy during exams and
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Bruxism, often detected through worn or damaged teeth, is a common indicator of sleep apnea. Grinding may occur as your body reflexively tries to reopen a blocked airway during interrupted breathing episodes.
High-Arched Palate
A high, narrow palate can restrict airflow and lead to breathing difficulties. This feature is easy for dentists to identify and often prompts a discussion about potential sleep-disordered breathing.
Scalloped Tongue Edges
Scalloping or indentations on the sides of the tongue suggest it’s pressing against the teeth, often due to an obstructed airway. This can be a visual clue for dentists to investigate further.
Enlarged Tonsils and Adenoids
Dentists examining your oral cavity may spot enlarged tonsils or adenoids, which are particularly significant in pediatric sleep apnea cases.
Signs of Sleep Apnea Dentists May Spot
During routine checkups, dentists can detect subtle oral signs linked to sleep apnea, including:
- Dry Mouth or Chronic Mouth Breathing: Mouth breathing during sleep often signals nasal obstruction or airway issues.
- Tooth Damage from Grinding: Flattened or chipped teeth are clues to nighttime grinding, which is frequently associated with airway struggles.
- Jaw Pain or Stiffness: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort can correlate with bruxism or clenching due to sleep apnea.
Dentists and Oral Appliance Therapy for Sleep Apnea
For patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), dentists can provide oral appliance therapy as an alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines.
- Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs): MADs reposition the jaw and tongue forward to keep the airway open during sleep. Dentists customize these appliances to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
- Collaboration with Sleep Specialists: Treatment often involves teamwork between dentists and sleep specialists. Dentists provide the oral appliance and monitor its effectiveness, while sleep specialists manage the overall diagnosis and care plan.
- Continuous Monitoring and Adjustments: Regular follow-ups ensure the device remains effective and comfortable as your needs evolve.
- A CPAP Alternative: For those who struggle with CPAP therapy, oral appliances offer a quieter, more portable, and easier-to-use option.
Why Nashua Residents Should Consider Sleep Apnea Screening
Undiagnosed sleep apnea affects overall health, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and daytime fatigue. Nashua and surrounding areas such as Hudson, Merrimack, and Milford, NH, are part of a growing movement to address sleep health through dental care. Call our Nashua sleep dentist at (603) 237-1124 to get started on addressing your sleep health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I see my dentist if I suspect sleep apnea?
Regular checkups are a great opportunity to discuss your concerns. Your dentist can evaluate oral signs of sleep apnea and refer you to a specialist if needed.
Can children’s sleep apnea be identified by dentists?
Yes. Enlarged tonsils, misaligned teeth, or a high-arched palate are clues dentists look for when assessing sleep apnea in children.
What’s the difference between a nightguard and a sleep apnea appliance?
Nightguards protect teeth from grinding but don’t prevent airway collapse. Sleep apnea appliances, like MADs, reposition the jaw to improve breathing.
How does dental sleep medicine work with other treatments?
Dentists and sleep specialists collaborate to ensure comprehensive care. Oral appliances can complement CPAP therapy or serve as standalone treatments for mild to moderate cases.
Take Control of Your Sleep Health Today!
If you’ve noticed potential signs of sleep apnea, such as teeth grinding, chronic fatigue, or dry mouth, don’t wait to seek help. The team at the Center for Dental Sleep Health in Nashua, NH, can guide you toward a better night’s sleep.
Call us at (603) 237-1124 to schedule your appointment. We proudly serve patients in Hudson, Merrimack, Milford, and nearby communities.