On the surface, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and gum disease might seem like they are totally unrelated. After all, OSA is a sleep disorder, while gum disease affects the soft tissue around your teeth. Surprisingly, though, these conditions often occur together. Why is there such a strong correlation between them, and how can you protect both your oral health and the quality of your nighttime rest? This blog post shares valuable information.
How OSA Can Lead to Gum Disease
OSA occurs when loose tissues in your throat block your upper airway during sleep. These obstructions cause repeated interruptions in breathing, often accompanied by loud snoring. Because the body becomes desperate to take in adequate amounts of oxygen, you may find yourself breathing through your mouth much more frequently if you have OSA.
Mouth breathing decreases saliva production in your oral cavity. Saliva plays a crucial role in oral health by washing away bacteria and food particles. When there is not enough of it, harmful bacteria have the opportunity to thrive, which raises your risk of gum disease.
How Gum Disease Can Worsen OSA
The connection between gum disease and OSA works both ways. Gum disease leads to inflammation in your mouth and even increases your body’s overall inflammatory burden. Swollen oral tissues may further restrict your airway, making OSA symptoms more severe.
Health Risks of OSA and Gum Disease
By themselves, both OSA and gum disease are serious threats to your health. When they occur together, those risks become even more concerning. Both of these conditions are associated with:
- Increased risk of heart attack
- Greater likelihood of stroke
- Higher rates of type 2 diabetes
- And other serious problems
What You Can Do
While the above information may seem scary, there is no need to be discouraged. There are practical things you can do to lower your risk of gum disease and enjoy higher-quality sleep. These steps may help:
- Lower your gum disease risk:
- Brush your teeth twice daily and floss once a day for thorough oral hygiene. Pay special attention to the area along your gumline.
- Visit your dentist every six months for preventive care and to catch gum disease early and receive treatment if needed.
- Eat healthful foods that support your immune system, and avoid overindulging in things like sugary treats and alcohol.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to rinse away bacteria and food particles, especially before bedtime.
- Protect yourself from sleep apnea:
- Pay attention to your sleep quality, and speak with a qualified professional if you snore often or notice other OSA symptoms.
- After receiving an OSA diagnosis, you may qualify for a custom oral appliance from a sleep dentist. This device gently repositions your jaw at night and helps keep your airway open.
- Take other steps to promote good sleep. For example, you should avoid alcohol before bedtime, sleep on your side, and have a comfortable mattress and pillow.
Addressing both OSA and gum disease is vital for your overall health. Take action early and work with health professionals to manage these conditions effectively.
Meet the Practice
At the beginning of his career, Dr. Mitch Conditt worked to provide high-quality general dentistry services to his patients. Now, his focus has shifted. As one of our area’s leading sleep dentists, he and our team offer high-quality oral appliance therapy to individuals with obstructive sleep apnea. This approach has proven effective for many people, and it may work for you as well. To learn more or to request a consultation, contact our Fort Worth office at 817-527-8500.