The Connection Between Sleep Apnea and Oral Health

When people think about sleep apnea, they often associate it with loud snoring, restless nights, and feeling exhausted during the day. However, what many don’t realize is that sleep apnea and oral health are deeply connected. Dentists like Dr. Dustin Deering, DDS, a leading provider of dental care in Encinitas, play a crucial role in identifying and treating this condition.

Recent studies have shown that oral health issues can contribute to sleep apnea and that, in turn, sleep apnea can negatively impact dental and overall health. Understanding this connection can help patients seek the right treatment and improve their quality of life.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The most common form, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much, causing a temporary blockage of airflow. This leads to interruptions in breathing, snoring, and frequent awakenings throughout the night.

While sleep apnea is a medical condition, dentists are often the first to notice its signs during routine exams. Dr. Dustin Deering screens his patients for symptoms of sleep apnea and works with other local specialists to provide treatment options.

How Oral Health and Sleep Apnea Are Connected

Several oral health factors contribute to obstructive sleep apnea, including:

1. Jaw and Bite Alignment Issues

A misaligned jaw or small airway space can lead to breathing difficulties during sleep. Patients with a recessed jaw, overbite, or a narrow palate may be at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea because their airway is more prone to collapse at night.

2. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

One of the most common signs of sleep apnea that Dr. Deering sees in his patients is bruxism, or teeth grinding. Many people grind their teeth in response to airway obstruction, as their body tries to reopen the airway. Over time, this grinding can cause tooth damage, jaw pain, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

3. Dry Mouth and Gum Disease

Patients with sleep apnea often breathe through their mouths at night, leading to chronic dry mouth. This lack of saliva can increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, as saliva helps wash away harmful bacteria. In fact, research shows that people with sleep apnea have a higher prevalence of periodontitis (gum disease) compared to those without the condition.

4. Tongue and Soft Tissue Blockages

A large tongue, enlarged tonsils, or excess soft tissue in the throat can contribute to airway obstruction. During a dental exam, Dr. Deering checks for these anatomical signs to determine if a patient may be at risk for sleep apnea.

How Sleep Apnea Affects Overall Health

If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues, including:

• High blood pressure and heart disease – Frequent oxygen deprivation during sleep strains the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Diabetes – Studies show that people with sleep apnea are more likely to develop insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes.
• Cognitive decline – Poor sleep quality has been linked to memory loss, concentration issues, and a higher risk of dementia.
• Depression and anxiety – Sleep apnea disrupts the brain’s ability to regulate mood, often leading to mental health struggles.

Because oral health and overall health are so closely linked, dentists like Dr. Deering play a key role in helping patients identify early signs of sleep apnea before more severe complications arise.

How Dr. Deering Can Help Treat Sleep Apnea

Many people are surprised to learn that a visit to Dr. Deering could be the first step in diagnosing and managing sleep apnea. Dr. Deering uses several approaches to help patients suffering from this condition:

1. Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT)

For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, a custom-fitted oral appliance can be an effective alternative to a CPAP machine. These appliances reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open while sleeping. Dr. Deering works closely with patients to ensure a comfortable, personalized fit that improves sleep quality.

2. TMJ and Jaw Alignment Evaluations

Since jaw positioning plays a major role in sleep apnea, Dr. Deering evaluates a patient’s bite and TMJ function. If misalignment is contributing to airway obstruction, he may recommend orthodontic solutions or other treatments to improve airflow.

3. Preventing Dental Damage from Teeth Grinding

For patients experiencing bruxism due to sleep apnea, Dr. Deering may recommend a nightguard to protect their teeth. This can help prevent tooth wear, fractures, and jaw pain caused by grinding.

4. Gum Health Maintenance

Because gum disease is more common in sleep apnea patients, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Dr. Deering emphasizes regular dental cleanings, fluoride treatments, and periodontal care to prevent complications.

When to Seek Help

If you or a loved one experience any of the following symptoms, it may be time to speak with Dr. Dustin Deering or a sleep specialist:

• Loud snoring
• Waking up gasping for air
• Chronic fatigue and daytime sleepiness
• Frequent morning headaches
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
• Teeth grinding or jaw pain

A dental exam can often reveal early warning signs of sleep apnea, making Dr. Deering an essential partner in diagnosing and managing this condition.

Sleep apnea isn’t just a sleep disorder—it’s a serious health condition that can affect everything from heart health to mental clarity. The good news is that dentists like Dr. Dustin Deering in Encinitas are trained to recognize the oral signs of sleep apnea and provide effective treatment options.

If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Deering to discuss your symptoms and explore custom dental solutions that can help you breathe easier, sleep better, and protect your overall health.

Ready to Seek the Help You Need?

If you have questions or would seek help with sleep apnea and oral health, our friendly team is always here to assist you. Just call us at 760-753-9036 and make an appointment.