Dental changes caused by sleep apnoea

Sleep apnoea can lead to several dental changes, particularly as a result of mouth breathing and drying of the mouth.

Xerostomia (dry mouth)

Mouth breathing during sleep can cause a reduction in saliva production, leading to a dry mouth. Saliva plays an essential role in maintaining oral health by neutralising acids and washing away food particles. A decrease in saliva can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

Bruxism (teeth grinding)

Sleep apnoea has been associated with teeth grinding, which can result in tooth wear, tooth fractures, and damage to dental restorations. Bruxism may also cause temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) and facial pain.

Periodontal disease

The reduced saliva production associated with mouth breathing can also increase the risk of periodontal disease. A dry mouth creates an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria that cause periodontal inflammation and eventually lead to periodontal disease.

Caries

A dry mouth due to mouth breathing can contribute to tooth decay, as the lack of saliva makes it difficult to neutralise the acids produced by bacteria and wash away food particles.