If you’re already struggling to get a good night’s rest while dealing with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you probably already know all the frustrating ways this disorder can affect your daily life. If left untreated, it can cause a litany of things like high blood pressure, cognitive impairment, and even low blood oxygen levels. But did you know that it can also affect your oral health, too? Here’s how.
How OSA Affects the Gums
While it may not seem like an obvious connection, studies have shown that obstructive sleep apnea could increase your risk of periodontal disease. That’s because when you have untreated OSA, you’re more likely to mouth-breathe during rest, decreasing your saliva production and causing dry mouth. Because your saliva is full of enzymes that help neutralize the acid created by harmful oral bacteria, when levels are low it can increase your risk of cavities and gum disease. Furthermore, the systemic inflammation caused by OSA can make the swelling and tenderness in your periodontal tissue even worse.
The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups
Because OSA and gum disease can seriously affect each other, if you’re currently suffering from one, it may be beneficial for your dentist to screen you for the other. This is especially important if you also suffer from medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. If you fit into a higher risk category for both OSA and gum disease (such as if you are man, over the age of 50, overweight, or a smoker) it is all the more important to visit your dentist regularly for your regular exams and cleanings.
CPAP and Gum Disease
If you have OSA and are reliant on CPAP to get to sleep, this could also increase your risk of gum disease. That’s because the forced air from your machine can dry out the mouth. With a Vivos DNA appliance, however, the airway is positioned open naturally to allow you to breathe without forced air, helping to reduce your risk of dry mouth and lowering your risk of gum disease. To learn more about these devices, speak to your sleep dentist about your options.
Remember, if left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can increase your risk of gum disease or worsen your symptoms if you already have it. Thus, to protect your smile and get the rest you deserve, speak to your dentist today about OSA treatment with the Vivos DNA appliance, and protect your oral and overall health while you sleep!
About Our Practice
At Exceptional Dentistry, we understand the innate connection between the mouth and the entire body, and between the quality of your sleep and your quality of life. That’s why we’re proud to offer the Vivos DNA sleep appliance. To learn more about this treatment and see if it’s right for you, schedule a consultation by visiting our website or calling 301-460-3331.