How Can a Dentist Detect Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common health condition that causes disrupted breathing as you try to rest. While someone might tell you that you snore, it’s common to be unsure of whether or not you stop breathing in your sleep. Thankfully, your local dentist can often spot the signs of apnea-related damage during your general dental exam. Knowing how your dentist might spot this sleep disorder gives you additional motivation to stay on top of your dental checkups.

What Signs of Sleep Apnea Do Dentists Notice?

People with sleep-related apnea tend to sleep with their mouths open in an effort to breathe. This can lead to a dry mouth that contributes to excess buildup of plaque and tartar. Since your mouth may lack the saliva it needs to neutralize acids in your mouth, your sleep apnea dentist may also spot higher rates of decay and enamel erosion on your teeth than they typically see in patients without sleep disorders. 

TMJ issues, damage from tooth grinding and increased gum disease are additional signs of apnea that your dentist might mention.

Should You Have More Frequent Cleanings With Sleep Apnea?

Most people need dental cleanings at least once or twice a year. However, you might need more frequent cleanings until you get your sleep apnea under control. During your dental visit, your dentist will assess your oral health and recommend a personalized schedule for teeth cleanings that fits your needs. Even if you need a special type of cleaning called root planing and scaling, you might not need frequent or deep cleanings as often once you treat your apnea.

Will a Dentist Recommend a Sleep Apnea Test?

After your dentist spots signs of apnea, they may recommend going to get tested for the condition. After having a sleep test done, you’ll want to share the results with your dentist. Once your dentist knows that you have an apnea diagnosis, they can take additional precautions to help you preserve your oral health such as using mouth guards and special rinses for dry mouth. 

What Types of Treatment Are Available? 

Since sleep apnea affects the soft tissues in your mouth and throat, your dentist can help by assisting with getting you fitted for a custom oral appliance. An oral appliance for sleep apnea holds your jaw in the proper position to help keep your airway open. Customized mouth guards can also help prevent tooth grinding that wears down enamel and causes sensitivity. Regular dental visits will further help to identify any new or developing issues early when treatments are more effective and less invasive. 

Stay On Top of Your Overall Health With a Routine Dental Exam

The connection between your oral health and the rest of your body is clear. On top of noticing the signs of sleep apnea, dentists can also check for gum disease that impacts your heart health and oral cancer. 

Schedule your next dental exam at Pearly Whites Dental Clinic today to make sure that sleep apnea doesn’t ruin your smile.