March is National Sleep Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to discuss an often-overlooked aspect of health that impacts many areas of life, including oral health: sleep quality. Houston Heights Dentistry is committed to helping our patients understand and manage conditions like sleep apnea, which not only disrupts sleep but can also have serious implications for your oral health.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes breathing to repeatedly stop and start during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood. This can lead to various health issues, including cardiovascular problems, daytime fatigue, and complications with diabetes and obesity.

Oral Health Signs of Sleep Apnea

Many patients are surprised to learn that their dentist might be the first to suspect sleep apnea, thanks to several oral health signs. Here are a few symptoms that might indicate the presence of sleep apnea:

• Grinding (Bruxism): Many sleep apnea patients grind their teeth at night, which can lead to tooth wear and increased tooth sensitivity.
• Dry Mouth: Waking up with a dry mouth can be a sign that you’ve been breathing through your mouth all night, often due to airway blockages.
• Tooth Erosion: Acids in the mouth can increase from prolonged dry mouth, leading to enamel erosion.

How Dental Professionals Help Manage Sleep Apnea

Dentists play a crucial role in managing sleep apnea by providing:

• Custom Dental Appliances: These are designed to keep the airway open during sleep, reducing the risk of apnea episodes.
• Referrals to Sleep Specialists: If a dentist suspects sleep apnea, they may refer you to a sleep specialist for further evaluation and treatment.
• Routine Monitoring: Regular dental visits are essential for patients with sleep apnea to manage associated dental issues like bruxism and tooth erosion.

Risk Factors and Diagnosis

Understanding risk factors for sleep apnea can help in early identification and management. Common risk factors include obesity, having a thick neck, or a narrow airway. Men are also more likely than women to suffer from sleep apnea. If you exhibit symptoms or have the risk factors associated with sleep apnea, a thorough evaluation, including possibly a sleep study, might be recommended.

Taking Action

If you think you might be at risk for sleep apnea, or if you’ve noticed any of the oral health signs mentioned, it’s important to take action. Schedule an appointment with us at Houston Heights Dentistry. We can assess your symptoms and, if necessary, provide you with a custom dental appliance or refer you to a specialist.