Some of the more prevalent sleep disorders center around dental health, with two of these in particular being potentially harmful. The first of these is bruxism, or the grinding of teeth, and it can cause serious damage to the lasting strength of your enamel. The other overnight condition that can cause comprehensive harm to your health is called chronic obstructive sleep apnea, where your throat tissue collapses on itself during sleep.
While both of these common sleep disorders affect patients of all types and ages, biological sex can put you at more of a risk for one or the other. Sleep apnea is seen in roughly twice as many men as women, due to several sex-related factors, and bruxism slightly disproportionately impacts women. For this reason, it is important to seek a provider who is diligent about understanding your specific needs as a patient. Dr. James Stewart, DDS, at Dental Sleep Medicine in Livonia, MI can help you to make positive decisions regarding your sleep so that you can wake up refreshed!
Bruxism Can Cause Significant Damage And Wear
Many people grind their teeth, and for most, this is not a serious concern. For some, however, this overnight action can cause substantial erosion of your enamel. Your grinding could be taking tiny bits of this material from the surface of your teeth, all while you sleep. This means that you do not have the ability to stop yourself or to channel that energy into a more positive habit, like chewing on a healthy snack. Instead, you could spend hours batting your teeth against each other.
This condition affects women at a slightly higher rate than men, but all patients should be aware of its harm. Bruxism can also shift the location of your teeth alongside your oral ridge, and sometimes this is enough to warrant orthodontic treatment.
Sleep Apnea Can Lead To Severe Complications
Chronic obstructive sleep apnea is another form of sleep disorder, and this one disproportionately affects men. When you sleep, your throat may become too relaxed, allowing the tissue of your throat to collapse on itself. During these times, your body is unable to fully breathe, preventing your brain from receiving the proper amount of oxygen. This action can produce serious complications! Apnea patients suffer from higher rates of blood pressure, as well as lower blood oxygenation levels, and can contribute to heart attack and stroke.
Discover The Benefits Of An Oral Appliance
Call Dr. James Stewart, DDS at (734) 425-4400 in Livonia, MI for more information or to schedule an appointment, so that you fully understand what is going on with your sleep. An oral appliance helps with both bruxism and chronic obstructive sleep apnea, so discuss your options with your provider!
