Obstructive sleep apnea is a medical condition, and gum disease is an oral health problem. At first, they might seem totally unrelated! The truth is, though, that they are often connected. What is the nature of that connection, and what steps can you take to protect both your smile and your systemic wellness? This blog post shares helpful information.
How Sleep Apnea Contributes to Gum Disease
In obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the upper airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep. In order to get more oxygen, you may unintentionally open your mouth while you are asleep. In turn, this can drastically reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth, causing it to become dry.
Saliva plays an important role in washing away bacteria, so when there is not enough of it, harmful microorganisms can thrive in your mouth, leading to an increased risk of gum disease.
In addition, sleep apnea can contribute to systemic inflammation throughout your body. Chronic inflammation does not only affect your general health, but it can also make your gums more sensitive and prone to disease.
How Gum Disease May Worsen Sleep Apnea
The relationship between sleep apnea and gum disease is bidirectional. When your gums are infected by harmful bacteria, it sparks an inflammatory response within your body, and often, the inflammation does not stay isolated in the gum tissue. It can extend to other areas of your mouth, including the tissues that support your airway. This can lead to a greater risk of nighttime breathing obstructions.
Treat Sleep Apnea to Improve Your Oral and Overall Health
How can you put a stop to the vicious cycle created by sleep apnea and gum disease? Here are some practical steps that may help:
- Treat your sleep apnea. Many people find that a custom oral appliance from a dentist is the most convenient and comfortable way to manage their condition. With consistent use, you may find that you are much less likely to breathe through your mouth. Plus, high-quality sleep can support a healthy immune system, which can be a great aid in fighting gum disease.
- Visit a dentist for gum disease treatment. You might need a deep cleaning of your mouth or other procedures to get rid of harmful bacteria. Your dentist can also coach you on oral hygiene techniques that can fight gum disease.
- Eat a healthful diet. Try to minimize your intake of sugary foods, which feed harmful oral bacteria. Instead, focus on consuming whole foods that are rich in nutrients. This can support your oral health, your overall health, and the quality of your nightly sleep.
Unfortunately, gum disease and sleep apnea often go hand in hand. If you are afflicted by these conditions, talk to your care team to get on the road to better health.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Jay A. Nelson is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. He specializes in providing oral appliance therapy for patients with obstructive sleep apnea. If you are struggling to get an adequate amount of high-quality rest, he and our team would be pleased to advise you on your next steps. Contact our Wesley Chapel office at 813-733-4169.