Recent research has looked into the possibility that dental check-ups can be used to screen for Sleep Disorders. The researchers suggest that dentists have the potential to spot the signs of sleep disorders – which have the potential to be life-threatening conditions. Moreover, the research underlines the importance of having regular dental check-ups.
Sleep Disorders are – unbeknownst to many – incredible serious conditions. For example, they have the potential to be life-threatening in some cases.
Interestingly, new research suggests that dentists could play a crucial role in identifying sleep disorders whilst conducting regular oral health checks [1].
This finding underlines the importance of visiting the dentist. For instance, not only does a dental check-up allow a patient to see how their oral health is, but it can also act as a chance for sleep disorders to be screened for.
What are sleep disorders?
Sleep disorders refer to a variety of conditions that impact the quality or duration of our sleep. Common conditions include insomnia and narcolepsy.
Among the most well-known sleep disorders is Obstructive Sleep Apnea. This is a condition that typically involves a decrease in oxygen while you sleep, resulting in breathing difficulties.
Obstructive sleep apnea is linked to many health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, mental illness and an overall decrease in quality of life [2].
Unfortunately, many cases of sleep disorders go undiagnosed. Getting them diagnosed can be challenging, which means alternative methods of symptoms being spotted can be helpful. However, this is where dentists come in.
The Research
The research was carried out by a team of researchers from Rutgers University. Their findings were published in the Journal of the American Dental Association [1].
The team – recognizing the impact of sleep disorders – wanted to collate information on how dental professionals have a role to play in spotting the signs of sleep disorders [1].
The authors conducted a literature review of sleep medicine-related articles between January 1990 and March 2024 [1]. They were looking for common themes amongst the findings in such articles.
Upon reviewing the consistent findings, the team collated them with existing knowledge on sleep disorders. Then, they were able to provide recommendations [1].
The team said that dental professionals have unique opportunities to screen for sleep disorders. As well as providing general advice, they can look for certain signs.
Signs that should be looked out for include enlarged jaw muscles, scalloped tongue edges, white lines on the cheeks, restricted visibility of the throat, dental wear patterns, and small cracks on the teeth [1].
The team have said that aside from looking for the above physical signs, dentists should also review the patient’s history. Moreover, they suggest that these measures are able to identify at-risk patients with up to 80% accuracy [1].
Furthermore, teeth grinding – or bruxism – is another sign that dentists should look out for. The researchers have pointed out that bruxism can be a symptom of an underlying sleep disorder [1].
The researchers state that these measures are part of a movement towards identifying the root cause of sleep disorders, rather than purely treating the symptoms [1].
One way of implementing these recommendations would be to add sleep-related questions into patient history forms – according to the researchers [1]. Additionally, training dental staff on the signs and symptoms of sleep disorders may also help.
Summary
These findings and recommendations are important. For dentists, it is a reminder that they need to look beyond the teeth and gums. Instead, they need to look at their patient’s health from a wider perspective.
But it is also a reminder to the wider public of the importance of oral health and getting check-ups on a regular basis.
The researchers have stated that when problems are spotted, that prompt referrals should be made to the relevant medical professionals. Early referrals can facilitate early intervention, which is linked to better treatment outcomes [1].
The researchers have strongly praised the recommendations, with David Thomas – senior author of the review – saying that “we have a great opportunity to change lives for the better” [3].
Continuing, Thomas called dentists “the first line of defense in sleep disorders” [3]. Therefore, the importance of dentists cannot be understated. Furthermore, it is vital that patients recognize this too.
Thinking points…
[1] As has been discussed above, visiting a dentist regularly is crucial! Check-ups are not only important for your oral health, but they can also help with your wider health. At a check-up, the dentist will take a look at your mouth, look for any problems and then provide advice afterwards. We recommend that you book an appointment now!
[2] The researchers mentioned that bruxism – or teeth grinding – is a common symptom of sleep disorders. Bruxism can be very damaging to our teeth. If you grind your teeth at night, it is important to mention this to your dentist. They might be able to provide advice, or recommend a guard to protect your teeth.
What we offer at Taradale Dental
Taradale Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. At our Calgary dental clinic, we provide a range of services for our patients.
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.
Here at Taradale Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, teeth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
Moreover, the fees of our treatments at our Calgary dental clinic Taradale Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing, with no hidden costs.
We hope to see you soon at our Taradale Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://taradaledental.ca/!
References
[1] Thomas, D. C., Somaiya, T., Cruz, M. M. E., Pitchumani, P. K., Ardeshna, A., Ravi, A., & Prabhakar, S. (2024). The enigma of sleep: Implications of sleep neuroscience for the dental clinician and patient. The Journal of the American Dental Association. 155 (9): p735-746. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adaj.2024.05.007.
[2] Yeghiazarians, Y., Jneid, H., Tietjens, J. R., et al. (2021). Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Cardiovascular Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 144 (3): p56-67. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1161/cir.0000000000000988.
[3] Rutgers University. (2024). From cavities to sleep apnea: Dentists can assume new role in saving lives. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-09-cavities-apnea-dentists-assume-role.html. Last accessed: 7th September 2024.
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