8. The Oral Health Connection: Beyond the Snore
Believe it or not, your dentist might be the first person to spot signs of sleep apnea. Conditions like teeth grinding (bruxism) or a receding jawline could be indicative of an underlying sleep disorder. Some dentists are now even equipped to conduct preliminary sleep studies in their practices.
It goes beyond mere observation. Specialized dental appliances designed to push the lower jaw and tongue slightly forward have been developed as an alternative treatment for mild to moderate sleep apnea. These devices work by enlarging the airway to facilitate easier breathing.
Moreover, issues like gum inflammation and dry mouth are more frequent in individuals with sleep apnea. This might be linked to the frequent episodes of waking up and the associated stress response that can affect oral health. (8)
