subject: How the Tooth Fairy and the Sandman met [print this page] How the Tooth Fairy and the Sandman met How the Tooth Fairy and the Sandman met
The body is a system of organs functioning as one. The malfunction of each part has a significant effect upon all the other parts. Who would have thought that sleep apnea had anything to do with the teeth?
You might have experienced what scientists call bruxism, or what people commonly known as teeth grinding. It occurs to almost every person regardless of age or sex and is commonly particular among patients suffering from sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea, on the other hand, is a sleeping disorder, characterized by difficulty in breathing during sleep. It may also be accompanied by shallow breaths and breathing pauses. This apneic event triggers mouth movements like snoring, mumbling and teeth grinding.
The common causes of sleep apnea include obesity, common cold, sinusitis, enlarged tonsils and airway abnormality. If not treated, mouth movements will continue, causing dental problems like denture chips, jaw pain, gum recession and teeth grounding.
There has been several medications and gadgets offered in the market to prevent teeth grinding during any occurrence of sleep apnea. Such gadgets include night guards or bite pads which are supposed to be bitten during sleep. A dental splint, used to hold teeth in place, either permanently or temporarily, may also be utilized. Based on researches, a Laurel, MD Dentist also says treatment varies from one patient to the other, and may depend on the gravity of the patient's condition. The effectiveness of each procedure may depend upon the reaction of the patient's body to the treatments.
In recent cases, Laurel, MD Dentists believe preventive care should be put first before any treatment. An individual must be aware of any problem or symptom manifested by the body. This is to encourage early detection of any complications and to prevent further damage to any affected organ.
Furthermore, a Laurel, MD Dentist also says a germ-free environment creates no possibility for bacteria and viruses to grow and create complications inside the body. Positive habits like exercising, dieting and clean living can build a good immune system and an effective reinforcement essential for the well-being of the body. Also, creating a good and conducive environment to sleep in can help reduce the occurrence of sleep apnea. Regular visit to the dentist must be observed to ensure that the teeth is cleaned and cleared from any problems.
