Technology and recently discovered medical innovations are giving those suffering from sleep apnea in Macon, GA, new ways to deal with the condition. However, when apnea sufferers are asked to consult with their dentists, they often wonder why. After all, it’s a sleep problem, isn’t it?
Sleep apnea is actually a breathing problem which begins in the mouth. What Exactly Is Sleep Apnea? Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where the throat muscles relax, blocking the airways for as much as 10 seconds. This interruption can occur up to 100 times per night. The sleeper usually awakens each time it happens to take a breath, resulting in disrupted rest.
How Does Sleep Apnea Affect Health?
Obstructive sleep apnea has been associated with rapid heartbeat, heart disease, fatigue, and high blood pressure among other health conditions. It also affects the teeth, which is why dentists will examine your teeth during checkups and may discuss sleep apnea with you.
What Does Sleep Apnea Do to Teeth?
It’s not uncommon to find sleep apnea sufferers with ground-up teeth, a condition called bruxism during which people grind their teeth in their sleep. This can cause serious damage to teeth down the road. Sensitive teeth and tight jaw muscles are common symptoms. If you are suffering from sleep apnea in Macon, GA, and you are experiencing jaw pain upon chewing, drinking or opening and closing the mouth, then you should consult your dentist. Those with sleep apnea often breathe through their mouths, resulting in dry mouth. Since saliva protects the teeth from cavities and tooth decay, limited saliva can pose a serious problem. If your dentist sees a lot of tooth enamel damage and cavities, then there might be a discussion about sleep apnea.
Dentists can give you mouth devices that will help keep the airways open during sleep. Your teeth will be healthier for it.
