Sleep apnea is a surprisingly common condition, and it can pose serious risks to a person’s overall health if it goes unaddressed. The good news is that a skilled dentist can often spot the warning signs early, which means the condition can, in many cases, be identified and managed with the right care.
Ways Your Dentist May Recognize the Signs of Sleep Apnea
Worn or Weakened Teeth
When a patient’s teeth appear worn down or fragile, teeth grinding may be to blame, and grinding is often connected to sleep apnea. In many cases, sleep apnea triggers jaw clenching as the body’s way of rousing itself awake. Over time, this repeated clenching can erode tooth enamel, leaving the teeth more brittle than they once were. During an exam, a dentist can closely inspect the teeth to check for signs of enamel wear.
A Smaller Jaw
People living with sleep apnea often have a noticeably smaller jaw as well. Repeated jaw clenching over an extended period can gradually cause the jaw to shrink, giving it a more compact appearance. By examining the size and shape of the jaw, a dentist can gather clues about whether sleep apnea may be present.
A Scalloped Tongue
Scalloping along the edges of the tongue is another indicator dentists may look for. Airway obstruction is frequently caused by the tongue itself, and when the tongue restricts airflow, it can develop an irregular, worn appearance over time. A scalloped tongue typically has a wavy or rippled edge that is fairly easy to spot during an exam.
Redness in the Throat
Snoring is one of the most common symptoms associated with sleep apnea, and an obstructed airway tends to take a toll on the throat as well. Ongoing, chronic snoring can leave the throat looking red, swollen, or irritated. During a dental exam, the dentist can check the throat closely for redness, inflammation, or swelling.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea
What Warning Signs Point to Sleep Apnea?
Symptoms of sleep apnea can differ from person to person, but the following are among the most frequently reported:
- Frequent or loud snoring
- Gasping or choking sensations upon waking
- Episodes of breath-holding during sleep
- Fatigue or drowsiness throughout the day
- Insomnia or trouble staying asleep
- Dry mouth or a sore throat in the morning
- Recurring headaches
- Mood swings, irritability, or feelings of depression
- Trouble focusing on daily tasks
- Increased forgetfulness
- Swelling in the legs
- Unexplained weight gain
- GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Elevated blood pressure
- Persistently low energy
- Diminished interest in sexual activity
It is worth remembering that not everyone with sleep apnea experiences every symptom on this list. It is also worth noting that loud snoring does not always indicate sleep apnea, and some people with sleep apnea may not snore at all.
Can Obstructive Sleep Apnea Be Dangerous?
Research has connected sleep apnea to a range of health concerns, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, personality changes, impotence, depression, and nocturia. Excessive daytime sleepiness is also one of the more notable symptoms, and it can create difficulties of its own.
Have Questions About Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Treatment? Contact The Smile Architects
Anyone who suspects they may have sleep apnea is encouraged to schedule a full evaluation with a qualified general dentist as soon as possible. At this visit, the dentist can examine the oral cavity for warning signs and answer any questions or concerns that come up. Get in touch today to book an appointment or to learn more about sleep apnea and how dental care may help.
Questions about diagnosing and treating sleep apnea are common, so you are not alone in wondering about it. Call our Huntersville, NC, office at 704-875-1621 to get started. We can set up an appointment so our dentists can evaluate your needs and explain the options available to help manage this condition.