Sleep Apnoea and Teeth Grinding

Sleep apnoea and teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, are two common sleep disorders that can significantly impact your overall health and quality of life. Interestingly, these two conditions are often interconnected. Understanding the relationship between sleep apnoea and teeth grinding is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatments here at Midway Dental Clinic.

What is Sleep Apnoea?

Sleep apnoea is a serious sleep disorder characterised by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, or apnoeas, can last from a few seconds to minutes and can occur multiple times an hour. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, leading to reduced oxygen intake and disrupted sleep.

What is Teeth Grinding?

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, often occurring during sleep. This condition can lead to various dental issues, including tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches. Bruxism can be caused by stress, anxiety, or abnormal bite alignment, but it is also frequently associated with sleep disorders like sleep apnoea.

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The Link Between Sleep Apnoea and Teeth Grinding

Research has shown a significant correlation between sleep apnoea and teeth grinding. When breathing is interrupted during sleep apnoea, the body’s natural response is to clench the jaw and grind the teeth to reopen the airway. This unconscious response can lead to frequent episodes of bruxism throughout the night.

The relationship between sleep apnoea and teeth grinding underscores the importance of comprehensive diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect you have either condition, consulting with your dentist at Midway Dental Clinic and a licensed sleep physician is essential. Through a combination of medical interventions like CPAP, oral appliances such as a Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS), and lifestyle changes, you can effectively manage these disorders and improve your sleep quality and overall dental wellbeing.

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What are the common symptoms of Sleep Apnoea and Teeth Grinding?

Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnoea:

Common Symptoms of Teeth Grinding:

If you experience symptoms of either condition, it is important to seek a professional evaluation. A referral to a licensed sleep physician can help determine if sleep apnoea is contributing to your teeth grinding.

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Treatment Options

Effective treatment requires addressing both sleep apnoea and teeth grinding. Here are some common treatment options:

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

CPAP therapy is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea. It involves wearing a mask over the nose and/or mouth during sleep. The mask is connected to a machine that delivers a continuous stream of air, keeping the airway open and preventing apnoeas.

Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS)

A Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS) is an oral appliance designed to treat both sleep apnoea and teeth grinding. The device fits over the upper and lower teeth and works by moving the lower jaw forward, which helps keep the airway open during sleep. This not only reduces the frequency of apnoeas but also alleviates bruxism by stabilising the jaw. Our dentists at Midway Dental Clinic are well-trained in the provision of Mandibular Advancement Splints.