The Connection Between Mouth Health and Sleep Apnoea

Sleep apnoea is a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep, leading to poor rest and health problems. But did you know your oral health can play a big role in sleep apnoea?

How Mouth Health and Sleep Apnoea Are Linked

• People with sleep apnoea often have a smaller airway or altered jaw structure, which can be related to oral anatomy (Giles & Guilleminault, 2005).
• Dry mouth, common in sleep apnoea patients especially those using CPAP machines, increases the risk of cavities and gum disease (Gray et al., 2008).
• Gum disease is more common in people with sleep apnoea, possibly due to inflammation and mouth breathing (Bunyaratavej et al., 2014).

Oral Treatments for Sleep Apnoea

• Oral appliances, like mandibular advancement devices, can help keep the airway open during sleep (Lim et al., 2006).
• Good oral hygiene is crucial to reduce dry mouth effects and prevent dental issues.
• Regular dental check-ups can help dentists detect early signs of sleep apnoea through examination of oral structures.

If you suspect sleep apnoea, talk to your doctor and dentist about diagnosis and treatment options — better sleep can improve your overall health and your smile.

References

• Giles, T. L., & Guilleminault, C. (2005). Oral appliances for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Chest, 128(5), 2596-2606.
• Gray, E. A., et al. (2008). Oral manifestations of patients with obstructive sleep apnea treated with continuous positive airway pressure. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontology, 105(3), 374-377.
• Bunyaratavej, S., et al. (2014). Relationship between periodontal disease and obstructive sleep apnea. Journal of Dental Research, 93(10), 1034-1040.
• Lim, J., et al. (2006). Oral appliances for obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 10(5), 273-286.