Do you wake up with tension headaches or an aching jaw? You might be grinding teeth while you sleep at night. Many people don’t realize this habit could be linked to sleep apnea. But our Denver dentists often see patients with both problems, and the connection might surprise you.
If you snore or grind your teeth at night, then it’s time to talk to the professionals at Metropolitan Dental Care. Our top-rated dentists in Denver, CO, can treat teeth grinding (bruxism) and snoring with simple yet effectual solutions. Rest easier – call (303) 534-2626 to schedule a visit today!
What Is Grinding Teeth?
Grinding teeth, also called bruxism, happens when you clench or rub your teeth together. It usually happens during sleep, so you may not even know you’re doing it. Over time, it can cause:
- Chipped teeth
- Jaw pain and dysfunction
- Gum and enamel problems
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition where your breathing is disturbed for short durations during sleep. Every time your breathing is disturbed, your brain wakes you up briefly to restart proper breathing. These interruptions can happen many times a night, leaving you tired in the morning.
Experts believe that roughly 30 million Americans suffer from this condition, but only six million people have received a diagnosis for sleep apnea. So, if you suspect you might have sleep apnea, it’s worth getting a diagnosis.
How Are They Connected?
Some studies show that people with sleep apnea are more likely to have grinding teeth. When your body struggles to breathe, your jaw muscles may tighten. This can trigger teeth grinding during the night. Experts believe grinding teeth may even be the body’s way to open the airway and improve breathing.
Signs You May Have Both
Look for these warning signs:
- You wake with sore jaw muscles
- Your teeth are worn or chipped
- You feel very tired in the morning
- You snore loudly
- You wake up gasping for air
- You experience headaches when you wake up
- You feel restless during sleep
If these sound familiar, you may be dealing with both sleep apnea and grinding teeth.
Why It Matters
Ignoring grinding teeth can lead to tooth damage, jaw disorders, and headaches. Ignoring sleep apnea can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Treating one problem may also help with the other.
How Denver Dentists Can Help
Our Denver dentists can check for signs of grinding teeth, such as worn enamel or bite changes. They can also refer you for a sleep study to test for sleep apnea. With the right treatment plan, you can protect your teeth and improve your sleep.
Treatment Options
Common treatment options include:
- Nightguards: These protect your teeth from damage caused by grinding teeth.
- Sleep apnea therapy: This might include a CPAP machine or a custom oral appliance.
- Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, reducing stress, and avoiding alcohol before bed can help.
- Dental devices: Some dentists offer special oral devices that keep your airway open and reduce grinding teeth caused by sleep apnea.
Don’t Wait for Relief – Contact Metropolitan Dental Care in Denver, CO
If you suspect you have grinding teeth and sleep apnea, get help now. The sooner you treat the problem, the sooner you can sleep better and save your teeth.
If you have symptoms of both, talk to the crew at Metropolitan Dental Care. You can contact us online here anytime, or you can reach our dentists in Denver, CO, at (303) 534-2626 for booking.
