How Dentists Use Oral Appliances to Treat Sleep Apnea

Did you know your dentist can help diagnose and even treat sleep apnea? In fact, dentists are often the first to notice signs of sleep disorders, like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), during routine checkups. Your teeth and jaw can tell a lot about your sleep quality, and dentists are uniquely positioned to detect issues that may be causing problems such as teeth grinding and snoring.

The Connection Between Sleep Apnea and Dentistry

Many people see their dentist more regularly than their primary care physician. During these visits, dentists don’t just look for cavities—they also check for physical signs that could indicate sleep apnea. Since 1995, dentists have been recommending patients for sleep studies based on their assessments of OSA risk factors. Today, members of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) also use oral appliance therapy as an effective treatment for sleep apnea, although using a CPAP machine remains the gold standard for sleep apnea treatment.

How Dentists Can Spot Sleep Apnea

During a routine dental exam, your dentist looks for signs of bruxism, or teeth grinding. Common signs include:

• Damaged cheek tissue

• Grooves or smooth surfaces on teeth

• Worn tooth enamel

Since 25% of people with sleep apnea grind their teeth, these clues could lead your dentist to suspect a sleep disorder. When your airway collapses during sleep, your brain may signal the jaw to tighten in an effort to stabilize the throat, resulting in teeth grinding.

The Role of Oral Appliances in Treating Sleep Apnea

If your dentist suspects sleep apnea, they may recommend a sleep study. However, they can also help treat the condition directly with oral appliance therapy. Oral appliances, often referred to as sleep apnea mouthguards, are custom-made to fit your mouth and keep your airways open while you sleep.

According to the AADSM, a custom oral appliance works by supporting the jaw in a forward position, preventing the airway from collapsing. This makes it an excellent alternative to CPAP machines for individuals who can’t tolerate CPAP or those with mild to moderate OSA.

Why Oral Appliance Therapy May Be Right for You

Oral appliances offer a non-invasive, easy-to-use option for treating sleep apnea. They’re especially beneficial for people who:

• Have trouble using a CPAP machine

• Experience mild sleep apnea or only a few sleep episodes per night

• Suffer from teeth grinding due to sleep apnea

These devices are simple to care for and have been shown to reduce both snoring and the severity of sleep apnea episodes. Working with your dentist on oral appliance therapy can improve your sleep quality and protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding.

Sleep Apnea and Dentists

Your dentist is more than just a caretaker of your teeth—they may be a critical player in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. If you experience teeth grinding or suspect you may have sleep apnea, talk to your dentist about the possibility of oral appliance therapy. By working together, you can improve your sleep, reduce snoring, and protect your teeth from unnecessary damage.

FAQ: Sleep Apnea and Dental Treatments

1. Can a dentist really diagnose sleep apnea?
Dentists can’t officially diagnose sleep apnea, but they can spot signs that suggest you may have the condition. They’ll refer you to a sleep specialist for a formal diagnosis through a sleep study.

2. How does a sleep apnea oral appliance work?
An oral appliance fits like a sports mouthguard and keeps the airway open by supporting the jaw in a forward position. This reduces the chances of airway collapse and helps prevent snoring and apneic episodes.

3. What are the benefits of using an oral appliance over CPAP?
Oral appliances are more comfortable for many patients and easier to travel with compared to CPAP machines. They are also non-invasive and typically easier to tolerate, making them a great option for people who struggle with CPAP.

4. How do I know if I’m grinding my teeth at night?
Common signs include waking up with headaches, jaw pain, or a stiff neck. Your dentist can also spot physical signs during a routine dental exam, such as worn or damaged teeth.

5. Can I use an oral appliance if I already have a CPAP machine?
Yes, oral appliances can be used alongside or instead of CPAP for certain patients. Discuss with your dentist or sleep specialist which treatment is best for your specific case.