Are Sleep Apnea and Oral Health Connected?
- Posted on: Mar 15 2025
Many people associate sleep apnea with snoring and fatigue. What they often don’t realize, though, is its effect on oral health.
Unmanaged sleep apnea can lead to or worsen a range of dental problems. That’s why Dr. Casey Patterson and Dr. Robert D. Bankhardt offer advanced sleep apnea treatments at their Simi Valley practice. With decades of combined experience, they provide unmatched care.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts while a person is asleep. The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when throat muscles become too relaxed and block the airway.
The Oral Health Risks of Sleep Apnea
Without proper treatment, sleep apnea can cause various dental issues. The following are some of the most well-known conditions associated with OSA.
Gum Disease
Sleep apnea sufferers often breathe through their mouths, which reduces saliva production. Saliva protects the teeth and gums from bacteria.
The chances of developing gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) increase without enough saliva. This can contribute to inflammation, bleeding, and even tooth loss.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Sleep apnea and teeth grinding frequently occur together. Many people with OSA unconsciously clench or grind their teeth as their bodies struggle to reopen the airway. Over time, this can wear down the enamel and lead to tooth sensitivity.
Cavities
Mouth breathing due to sleep apnea can cause dryness and make it easier for cavity-causing bacteria to thrive. Without adequate saliva, individuals with sleep apnea are more prone to tooth decay and bad breath.
TMJ Disorders
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jaw to the skull. Chronic teeth grinding and jaw tension – both common in sleep apnea patients – can strain this joint. This strain, in turn, may result in jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, and trouble chewing.
Improve Your Sleep and Protect Your Smile
Sleep apnea stops you from getting a good night’s rest, but it can also have a serious impact on your teeth and gums.
Fortunately, Dr. Patterson and Dr. Bankhardt in Simi Valley offer effective solutions to help you breathe easier and maintain your smile. Contact our office today at (805) 584-1194 to book a consultation.
Posted in: Sleep Apnea
