Most people visit their dentist for cleanings and checkups, but your dentist does more than keep your smile bright-they also spot signs of serious health conditions, including sleep apnea. Sleep apnea, a condition that occurs when the upper airway becomes partially or fully blocked during sleep affects millions of people—many without knowing it. This common sleep disorder repeatedly pauses breathing during the night, depriving your body of oxygen and disrupting restful sleep. Because dentists regularly examine the mouth, jaw, and airway, they are often among the first healthcare professionals to detect the warning signs. Often overlooked, is the fact that sleep apnea doesn’t just affect adults. Studies have shown that children also experience signs and serious symptoms of sleep apnea.
Certain oral and facial features can point to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common form of the disorder. These include:
- Worn or cracked teeth: Grinding or clenching (bruxism) during sleep can occur when the body struggles to reopen a blocked airway.
- Jaw or facial structure: A small, narrow jaw, or a receding chin can contribute to restricted airflow.
- Large tongue or tonsils: These can physically narrow the throat, making airway obstruction more likely.
- High, arched palate or crowded teeth: Both can indicate limited space in the airway.
- Dry mouth or sore throat: Caused by frequent mouth breathing during sleep.
Dentists may ask questions about snoring, morning headaches, fatigue, or restless sleep. These symptoms, when combined with physical signs, can raise concern that sleep apnea may be affecting your health. When sleep apnea goes undiagnosed its effects extend far beyond poor sleep. Repeated interruptions in breathing cause oxygen levels to drop, forcing the heart and brain to work harder throughout the night. Over time, this can lead to serious health problems such as:
- High blood pressure and heart disease
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Chronic fatigue and memory issues
- Mood changes, anxiety, or depression
- Cognitive decline, lending to dementia
The impact to children includes oral findings mentioned above as well as the following physical, behavioral and developmental effects:
- Growth issues: Because growth hormone is primarily released during deep sleep, children with sleep apnea may experience stunted growth or poor weight gain.
- Cardiovascular strain: Chronic oxygen drops can put stress on the heart and blood vessels, potentially increasing blood pressure.
- Daytime sleepiness or “hyper” behavior (often mistaken for ADHD)
- Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and poor academic performance
- Mood swings, irritability, and emotional outbursts
- Slow learning or developmental delays in severe or long-term cases
How We Can Help
At Tropical Smiles Dental, we take an overall approach to your health — looking beyond the teeth to airway, breathing, and overall wellness. We have the ability to partner with your medical insurance to work with a physician and order your sleep test. The test will determine your stage of sleep apnea and subsequently the best treatment option for you.
Did you know that most people do not need a CPAP appliance (a medical device that keeps the airway open during sleep with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) to treat their condition! Depending on your stage of sleep apnea, we may have the ability to fabricate a custom oral appliance other than a CPAP to improve your sleep apnea and overall health.
If we observe signs of obstructive sleep apnea, we can provide:
- Sleep screening and referrals for further testing
- Oral appliance therapy—a custom mouthpiece that keeps your airway open
- Personalized care for better sleep and overall wellness
Call today to find out how we can help improve your oral health and longevity!