What’s the Connection Between Oral Health and Sleep Apnea?

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  • By Courthouse Art of Dentistry
  • November 19 2025

    • Sleep apnea is a serious health condition that affects your breathing, sleep quality, and overall wellness. But what many people don’t realize is that your oral health plays a major role in both detecting and treating sleep apnea. Our dentists in Arlington, VA work closely with patients to evaluate airway concerns and provide effective solutions, including sleep apnea treatment in Arlington using custom oral appliances.

     

    Your Mouth Structure Affects Airflow

    Sleep apnea - especially obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) - occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep. This blockage is often caused by oral and facial structures such as:

    •          A narrow jaw

    •          A retruded lower jaw

    •          Enlarge tongue or soft tissues

    •          Bite misalignment

    Dentists are uniquely positioned to identify these risk factors during routine dental exams. If your dentist notices signs like worn-down teeth (from grinding), scalloped tongue edges, or breathing issues, they may suspect underlying sleep apnea.

     

    Teeth Grinding and Sleep Apnea Are Often Connected

    Bruxism (teeth grinding) is common in people with sleep apnea. When your airway collapses at night, your body instinctively clenches the jaw to reopen it. This can lead to:

    •          Jaw pain

    •          Headaches

    •          Broken or worn teeth

    •          TMJ discomfort

    Addressing sleep apnea often reduces or eliminates grinding altogether.

     

    Gum Health Can Impact Sleep Quality

    Chronic mouth breathing can lead to dry mouth, which increases the risk of:

    •          Gum disease

    •          Tooth decay

    •          Bad breath

    Treating the airway problem often improves oral health as a whole.


     

    How Dentistry Helps Treat Sleep Apnea

    Our practice offers mandibular advancement devices, a type of oral appliance that gently moves the lower jaw forward while you sleep. This opens the airway and reduces breathing interruptions. Additionally, improving alignment can also enhance airflow. Invisalign aligners can:

    •          Expand the arch subtly

    •          Improve jaw positioning

    •          Reduce crowding that limits tongue space

    By creating more room in the mouth and optimizing jaw alignment, Invisalign can support long-term sleep apnea improvement.

     

    Get Personalized Sleep Apnea Treatment in Arlington, VA

    Your mouth and airway are closely connected, which is why dentists play a key role in recognizing and managing sleep apnea. We provide advanced dental solutions to help our patients breathe easier, sleep better, and protect their long-term health.

    If you suspect you might sleep apnea, contact Courthouse Art of Dentistry to schedule your consultation and learn about customized treatments. Visit our office in Arlington, Virginia, or call (571) 556-8429 today.