Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is more than just loud snoring – it can seriously affect your overall health, including your oral health. While you might think of general dentistry as just cleanings and fillings, your Las Vegas dentist plays a big role in identifying sleep apnea.
Dr. Ann Pham and Dr. Halan Tran have years of experience identifying the signs of nighttime apnea. So, if you suspect OSA is impacting your life, call (702) 456-0056 to explore simple apnea treatments at Miracle Dental in Las Vegas, NV, today!
If OSA is left untreated, it can lead to a variety of oral health problems. So, in today’s post, our Vegas dentists dive into what you need to know!
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
OSA is a condition where you stop regular respiration (i.e. breathing) during sleep due to lax muscles and tissue in the airway. These pauses in respiration can last for a few seconds to a minute, often happening multiple times each night.
This condition affects millions of people, especially males of color with a higher body mass index (BMI). In some cases, weight loss can help OSA symptoms, but it’s best to speak to a professional for comprehensive care.
How OSA Affects Your Oral Health
Sleep apnea doesn’t just impact your sleep – it also causes problems in your mouth. Here are some ways it can affect your oral health:
1. Dry Mouth
Sleep apnea encourages mouth breathing while sleeping. This can lead to dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.
2. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Many people with OSA clench their jaws and grind their teeth at night. This can wear down tooth enamel, cause tooth sensitivity, and even lead to jaw dysfunction.
3. Gum Disease
Sleep apnea can cause inflammation in the body. This inflammation may increase the risk of gum disease.
4. TMJ Disorder
OSA can put extra stress on your jaw, leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. This can cause pain, clicking sounds, and difficulty moving your jaw.
Signs You May Have Sleep Apnea
Wondering if you might have OSA? Here are some common signs to watch for:
- Loud and prolonged snoring
- Waking up gasping for a breath of air
- Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth or sore throat when you wake up
- Jaw pain or tooth sensitivity
If you notice these symptoms, talk to our dentists in Las Vegas now. OSA is serious but very treatable.
How Your Dentist in Vegas Can Help
Believe it or not, your Vegas dentist can play a key role in identifying and managing sleep apnea. During a general dentistry visit, Dr. Pham or Dr. Tran may notice signs like worn teeth or a dry mouth. If they suspect OSA, they may recommend simple oral devices to open your airway and protect your teeth.
Treating OSA Improves Your Oral Health
When you treat sleep apnea, you protect more than just your sleep – you protect your smile! Managing sleep apnea reduces dry mouth, prevents teeth grinding, and lowers your risk of gum disease.
Explore Simple Sleep Apnea Treatment in Las Vegas, NV
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, don’t wait. Talk to our Las Vegas dentists today. Click here to schedule a consultation at Miracle Dental, or call our front desk at (702) 456-0056 to request an appointment now!
