Unaddressed sleep apnea can affect your teeth, gums, and jaw. The good news is that you can take steps to prevent these issues.
At Softouch Dental Care, Dr. Michael Chung, who has over 20 years of experience, and his team offer advanced, patient-centered solutions like oral appliance therapy. They strive to help patients achieve better sleep and healthier smiles.
The Hidden Link Between Sleep Apnea and Oral Health
Sleep apnea causes continuous breathing interruptions during sleep. These disruptions can lead to several oral health issues, including:
- Dry mouth: Reduced airflow and open-mouth breathing can decrease saliva production. This creates the perfect environment for cavities.
- Bruxism (teeth grinding): Many sleep apnea sufferers grind their teeth at night. This can lead to worn enamel, cracked teeth, and jaw pain.
- Gum disease: Chronic inflammation from disrupted sleep can weaken your immune system. This interferes with your ability to fight off infections like gum disease.
Over time, these problems can escalate and impact more than just your smile. Other health challenges associated with sleep apnea include heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and dementia.
How Oral Appliance Therapy Can Help
At Softouch Dental Care, Dr. Chung offers oral appliance therapy as a comfortable, effective way to manage sleep apnea. These custom-fitted devices reposition the jaw, pulling it forward to keep the airway open throughout the night.
Compared to bulky CPAP machines, oral appliances are compact, silent, and easy to use. They’re a popular choice for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea seeking a better night’s rest without any hassle.
Prepare for Better Sleep and Oral Health
If you have noticed sleep apnea symptoms or are struggling with its effects on your mouth, it’s time to take action.
At Softouch Dental Care, we combine advanced dental expertise with amenities that turn your visit into a relaxing experience. Dr. Chung is known for his holistic approach to dentistry and provides personalized sleep apnea treatments.
Contact us today at 703-319-6990 to schedule a consultation and explore the benefits of oral appliance therapy.
