How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns are an effective solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They offer both cosmetic and functional benefits, but a common question that many patients have is, “how long do dental crowns last?”

Let's delve into the longevity of dental crowns and the factors that can influence their lifespan.

Factors Influencing the Lifespan of Dental Crowns

1. Material Used
The material of the crown plays a significant role in its durability. For instance:

  • Porcelain crowns: Offer a natural appearance and can last between 5 to 15 years, with proper care.
  • Metal crowns: Often last longer, sometimes up to 20 years or more due to their robust nature.
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: Combine the aesthetic appeal of porcelain with the strength of metal, typically lasting 10 to 15 years.

2. Oral Hygiene Practices
Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups can extend the life of your dental crown. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to issues like gum disease which might compromise the base where the crown is attached.

3. Habits and Lifestyle
Habits such as grinding or clenching your teeth, chewing on hard objects, or using your teeth to open packages can damage crowns, reducing their lifespan.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Usually Last?

On average, dental crowns last between 5 to 15 years. However, with optimal care and depending on the material used, they can last even longer.

The metal crowns are the sturdiest and might exceed 20 years, while porcelain variants often last between 5 to 15 years. Remember, individual experiences may vary, and regular check-ups with your dentist are crucial to ensure the health and longevity of your crown.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Dental Crown

  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can keep your crown in good condition.
  • Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings help in identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate.
  • Avoid Hard Foods: Hard candies or ice can harm your crowns. Try to avoid or limit them.
  • Wear a Mouthguard: If you’re involved in contact sports or have a habit of grinding your teeth, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your crown.

Summary
In conclusion, the lifespan of a dental crown primarily depends on the material, your oral habits, hygiene practices, and regular dental check-ups. If you're considering getting a dental crown or want to know more about their longevity, visit CK Family Dental's service explanation on dental crowns.

Remember, individual experiences vary, and it’s essential to consult with your dentist about what to expect and how to care for your dental crown to ensure its maximum lifespan.

Types of Dental Crowns and Cost: A Helpful Guide

If you’re looking to restore or enhance the appearance of a damaged tooth, dental crowns might be on your radar.

As with any dental procedure, it’s natural to question the costs involved. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of dental crowns and cost, helping you make an informed decision.

1. What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped “caps” placed over a damaged tooth. Their primary purpose is to restore the tooth’s shape, size, and strength while improving its appearance.

2. Factors Affecting the Cost of Dental Crowns

Before diving into specific types and their costs, it’s essential to understand the various factors that influence the price:

  • Materials Used: Different materials come with different price tags.
  • Geographical Location: Costs vary based on where you’re getting the procedure.
  • Dentist’s Expertise: Experienced professionals might charge more than novices.
  • Dental Insurance: The amount your insurance covers can significantly influence out-of-pocket expenses.

It’s important to note, the prices below are average prices and may not represent the exact price in your area or from your dentist.

3. Types of Dental Crowns and Cost Breakdown

-Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Material Characteristics: Offers a natural tooth appearance but might sometimes show the metal beneath.

Average Cost: $500 – $1,500 per tooth.

-Metal Crowns
Material Characteristics: These can be gold alloys, other alloys (like palladium), or base-metal alloys. They’re long-lasting and withstand biting forces, but their metallic color is conspicuous.

Average Cost: $600 – $2,500 per tooth.

-All-Porcelain/All-Ceramic Crowns
Material Characteristics: They provide the best natural color match compared to other crown types. Suitable for people with metal allergies.

Average Cost: $800 – $3,000 per tooth.

-Resin Crowns
Material Characteristics: Less expensive than other crown types but wear down over time and are more prone to fractures.

Average Cost: $300 – $1,200 per tooth.

4. Other Influences on Cost

-Additional Procedures
Sometimes, supplementary procedures like root canals or dental implants are necessary, adding to the overall types of dental crowns and cost.

Lab-Made vs. In-Office Crowns
With advancements in dental technology, some offices now offer same-day crowns made in-house. However, lab-made crowns can sometimes be pricier due to their superior customization.

5. Dental Insurance and Crown Coverage

Most dental insurance plans partially cover crown procedures if they’re deemed medically necessary. It’s crucial to consult your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your coverage.

6. Conclusion

Understanding the types of dental crowns and cost is a stepping stone to making an informed decision about your dental health.

Always consult with your dentist to discuss the most suitable crown type for your needs and the associated costs. Dental crowns aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about restoring functionality and ensuring long-term oral health.

At Callahan and Klein Dental we can help you not only get the treatment you need for your crown but ensure your crowns are made with the most quality materials to last a long time.

What is The Main Cause of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can happen for many reasons, but there is one common reason that can be considered the main cause of sleep apnea, obstruction. Sleep apnea can be considered a very serious condition as it involves you being unable to breathe and a loss of oxygen in your blood.

At CK Dental in Lakewood, CO, area, we believe in giving you access to information that benefits you. Below we will talk about one of the main causes of sleep apnea and how you can prevent or treat the cause so that you can get a good night’s rest.

The Main Cause of Sleep Apnea

The two main types of sleep apnea. Firstly there is obstructive sleep and central sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is more common and is caused by the way you breathe and how your body works.

Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by obesity and excessive weight in adults, as the soft tissue in your mouth can block your upper airway. The soft tissue in question can be found in your mouth and throat, and during sleep, it relaxes and blocks your airways.

Obstructive sleep apnea is different from central sleep apnea, as obstructive sleep apnea can be affected by weight. Central sleep apnea can happen when your brain doesn’t send the correct signals to your muscles that allow you to breathe while sleeping.

How Does Weight Affect Sleep Apnea

More than half of the people who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea are either obese or overweight. You can be considered overweight if your body mass index, BMI, is 25 to 29.9. You can be considered obese if your body mass index, BMI, is 30 or above.

The dangers of being obese or overweight with obstructive sleep apnea increase the more weight you put on. A weight gain of 10% of your body weight can increase the risk of having obstructive sleep apnea by six times.

A sign of obesity can be the size of a person’s neck width. Men who have a neck circumference that is greater than 17 inches or 43 centimeters and women who have a neck circumference that is greater than 15 inches or 38 centimeters are at a greater risk of suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.

Treatments For Obstructive Sleep Apnea

One of the biggest ways to help reduce the effects of obstructive sleep apnea is by losing excessive weight and decreasing your body mass index, BMI. By decreasing your overall weight, you can decrease how severe obstructive sleep apnea can be.

You can also use a BiPap or a Continuous Positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine that can breathe for you while you are sleeping. Here at CK Dental, we offer an alternative treatment to sleep apnea, so you do not have to use a CPAP machine for breathing as some people find them too noisy.

You should also not sleep on your back as gravity can push that soft tissue in your neck and mouth to close your airways. Instead, you should sleep on your side.

Symptoms Of Sleep Apnea

Many people suffer from sleeplessness or interrupted sleep due to suffering from sleep apnea. As sleep apnea can affect your daily life and overall health, it is important to understand what sleep apnea symptoms are.

Here at CK Dental, your friendly Lakewood dentists, we want to help you deal with the symptoms and improve your nights. As more people suffer from sleep apnea then many people realize, we have created a list of symptoms so you know what to look out for.

1. Snoring

Snoring may be considered normal behavior while sleeping, but it can also be a sign that you are suffering from sleep apnea. Although it is worth noting that even though it is the most common symptom of sleep apnea, you can still suffer from sleep apnea without snoring.

This is why knowing what all the other symptoms are is important.

2. Daytime Sleepiness

Daytime sleepiness, otherwise known as hypersomnia, is when you are always tired throughout the day. This symptom can be viewed if always drowsy at work, driving, or doing other tasks. This can become disruptive to your life and health.

3. Disrupted Sleep or Not Sleeping

If you can not sleep or are always waking up during it, you may be suffering from insomnia. This is a well-known symptom of sleep apnea. Insomnia is not just bad as you will battle to get the recommended hours of sleep, but it can affect your mental well-being as well.

4. Waking up, Short of Breath

If you keep waking up feeling like you are short of breath, you may be choking yourself without realizing and waking up because of it. You can also feel as if your mouth is dry and your throat is sore after sleeping.

If you feel like you are short of breath and keep waking up throughout the night, consult a medical physician, as this can be dangerous.

5. People Witness You Pause Breathing While You Sleep

If someone witnesses you struggling to breathe while you are asleep, this can be an indicator that you may suffer from sleep apnea. If your loved ones, spouses, or other people tell you this, you should contact your Doctor for a consultation.

6. Mood Swings

If you suffer from random mood swings, depression, and anxiety, having a lackluster sleep can be the cause. If you do not get enough sleep throughout the night, you can have a disruption in your brain function, and that can lead to mood swings.

If you battle to sleep and suffer from depression and anxiety, we recommend that you contact a Doctor or Psychologist to seek the help you need. Here at CK Dental, we may be able to help with your lack of sleep, allowing you to live a healthy life as sleep apnea may be the culprit.

If you suffer from snoring and other of the known symptoms listed above, book an appointment with your medical professional before booking an appointment with us.

Sleep Apnea Mouth Guards: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects individuals worldwide, causing breathing interruptions during sleep and leading to various health complications. Fortunately, sleep apnea mouth guards provide an effective treatment option. In this article, we will explore sleep apnea mouth guards, their purpose, and how they help individuals with sleep apnea achieve better sleep and overall well-being.

What is a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard?

A sleep apnea mouth guard, also known as a mandibular advancement device (MAD) or oral appliance, is a custom-made dental device worn during sleep. Its primary function is to reposition the jaw and tongue, which helps open the airway and prevent collapse or obstruction that leads to sleep apnea episodes.

Why Do You Need a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard?

Sleep apnea mouth guards are recommended for individuals diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. They offer a comfortable and non-invasive alternative to CPAP machines, providing relief from sleep apnea symptoms and improving sleep quality.

How Does a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard Help?

Sleep apnea mouth guards work by gently repositioning the lower jaw and tongue forward, creating more space in the throat and reducing airway blockage during sleep. This helps maintain an open airway, allowing for proper airflow and preventing breathing interruptions characteristic of sleep apnea. Users experience improved breathing, reduced snoring, and fewer apnea episodes.

Benefits of Sleep Apnea Mouth Guards:

Enhanced Sleep Quality: By improving airflow and reducing interruptions, sleep apnea mouth guards promote deeper, more restful sleep, leading to increased energy levels and daytime alertness.

Snoring Reduction: These oral appliances effectively reduce or eliminate snoring, benefiting both the individual with sleep apnea and their sleeping partners.

Increased Comfort and Compliance: Sleep apnea mouth guards offer greater comfort and easier adaptation compared to CPAP machines, resulting in better compliance and higher long-term usage rates.

Portability and Convenience: Sleep apnea mouth guards are compact and portable, making them convenient for travel and on-the-go use.

Obtaining a Sleep Apnea Mouth Guard: To obtain a sleep apnea mouth guard, it is crucial to consult with a qualified dentist or sleep specialist who can assess your condition and recommend the most suitable device. Custom fitting ensures optimal comfort and effectiveness.

Conclusion:

Sleep apnea mouth guards provide a practical and effective solution for managing sleep apnea symptoms. By promoting better airflow and reducing airway obstructions, these oral appliances significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being. If you suspect you have sleep apnea or have already been diagnosed, consult with a healthcare professional to determine if a sleep apnea mouth guard is a suitable treatment option for you. Take control of your sleep and enjoy the benefits of a restful night’s rest with a sleep apnea mouth guard.

Sleep Apnea Machines: Enhancing Sleep and Health with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that disrupts normal breathing patterns during sleep, leading to frequent pauses in breathing and inadequate oxygen intake. Fortunately, there is a solution to manage this condition: the sleep apnea machine, also known as a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. In this article, we will explore what a sleep apnea machine is, how it works, and why it is essential for individuals with sleep apnea.

A sleep apnea machine is a medical device designed to assist individuals with sleep apnea in maintaining open and unobstructed airways during sleep. It delivers a constant flow of air pressure through a mask worn over the nose or mouth. This continuous positive airway pressure helps keep the airways open, preventing pauses in breathing and promoting uninterrupted sleep.

The machine draws in ambient air and delivers it at a prescribed pressure level determined through a sleep study or consultation with a sleep specialist. The  pressurized air is then delivered through a mask, creating a seal to ensure the air reaches the airways effectively. Throughout the night, the sleep apnea machine provides a continuous flow of pressurized air, splinting the airways open and reducing the collapse of soft tissues.

A sleep apnea machine is beneficial for individuals with sleep apnea for several reasons. Firstly, it improves sleep quality by reducing apnea episodes and promoting uninterrupted sleep. This leads to increased restfulness and overall better sleep. Secondly, it enhances daytime alertness by alleviating excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue caused by disrupted sleep patterns. Individuals using the machine often feel more alert, energized, and productive during the day.

Using a sleep apnea machine also brings important health benefits. Sleep apnea is associated with various health risks, including cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of stroke. By ensuring optimal oxygenation during sleep, the machine helps mitigate these risks and improves overall cardiovascular health.

Another advantage of using a sleep apnea machine is the reduction or elimination of snoring. Snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, and the continuous positive airway pressure provided by the machine helps alleviate this issue. Both the individual using the machine and their bed partner can benefit from a quieter sleep environment.

Lastly, a sleep apnea machine serves as a long-term health management tool. Sleep apnea is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. By using a sleep apnea machine as prescribed by a healthcare professional, individuals can maintain control over their sleep apnea, prevent further complications, and ensure long-term health management.

In conclusion, a sleep apnea machine, such as a CPAP device, plays a crucial role in managing sleep apnea. By delivering continuous positive airway pressure, these machines help keep the airways open, promote uninterrupted breathing, and improve sleep quality. If you or a loved one experience symptoms of sleep apnea, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional or sleep specialist who can provide a thorough evaluation and determine the most appropriate treatment plan, which may include the use of a sleep apnea machine.

Recognizing the Signs of Sleep Apnea: A Guide for Dental Patients

Sleep apnea is a prevalent sleep disorder that often goes undiagnosed, but its impact on overall health, including oral health, cannot be ignored.

As dental professionals, we understand the importance of early detection and treatment. In this blog post, we aim to educate dental patients about the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea, enabling them to recognize potential red flags and seek appropriate medical attention promptly.

Understanding Sleep Apnea:

Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep. It occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked, leading to pauses in breathing that can last from a few seconds to minutes. Dental patients should be aware of the signs associated with sleep apnea to ensure timely intervention.

Chronic Snoring:

Loud, chronic snoring is one of the most common signs of sleep apnea. If you or your sleep partner notice that your snoring is disruptive, irregular, and accompanied by gasping or choking sounds, it could be an indication of sleep apnea.

Excessive Daytime Sleepiness:

Experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness, regardless of getting an adequate amount of sleep at night, should raise concerns. If you find it challenging to stay awake and alert during the day, it may be a sign of sleep apnea disrupting your restful sleep patterns.

Fatigue and Lack of Energy:

Sleep apnea can leave you feeling tired and fatigued even after a full night’s sleep. If you wake up feeling exhausted, struggle to maintain energy levels throughout the day, or experience frequent bouts of tiredness, it could be a symptom of sleep apnea.

Morning Headaches:

Frequent morning headaches that dissipate as the day progresses may be a result of oxygen deprivation during sleep caused by sleep apnea. These headaches can be persistent, dull, and accompanied by feelings of heaviness or pressure.

Restless Sleep and Frequent Waking:

Sleep apnea often disrupts sleep, leading to restless nights and frequent awakenings. If you find yourself tossing and turning, waking up abruptly with a racing heart or gasping for air, it is advisable to explore the possibility of sleep apnea.

Mood Swings and Irritability:

Sleep apnea can impact your mood and emotional well-being. Patients with untreated sleep apnea may experience irritability, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and even depression. If you notice unexplained changes in your mood or behavior, it is worth considering a potential link to sleep apnea.

Dry Mouth and Sore Throat:

Mouth breathing, a common symptom of sleep apnea, can cause dry mouth and a sore throat upon waking. If you frequently wake up with a parched mouth or a feeling of throat irritation, it could be a sign that your breathing is being compromised during sleep.

Dental Signs:

Dental professionals can also identify certain oral signs that may point towards sleep apnea. These can include teeth grinding (bruxism), worn-down tooth surfaces, and jaw pain. If your dentist notices these signs during a routine dental examination, they may recommend further evaluation for sleep apnea.

Seeking Diagnosis and Treatment:

If you recognize several of these signs in yourself or if your sleep partner has expressed concerns about your breathing patterns during sleep, it is crucial to seek a professional diagnosis. A sleep study, conducted at a sleep clinic or through home-based testing, can help determine whether you have sleep apnea.

Treatment options for sleep apnea may include Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, custom-made oral appliances, lifestyle modifications, or a combination of these approaches. It is essential to work closely with healthcare professionals, including sleep specialists and dental professionals.

How Do I Test For Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder that is very serious as it can cause you to stop breathing while you are asleep. If you suspect that you do suffer from sleep apnea, the best way to confirm diagnosis is through a sleep study. Sleep apnea tests need to be done before you can get treated.

So many people may not realize that they suffer from sleep apnea or how they get tested for one. Here at CK Dental, we will explain how you may get tested for sleep apnea and what is done during the test.

What Do They Test You On

A sleep study is usually conducted in a sleep clinic or a hospital, where you spend a night or more sleeping while being monitored. During the study, the following parameters are usually measured.

  1. Brain activity (electroencephalogram or EEG.) An EEG allows the doctor to monitor your brain activity throughout the night and to see if your brain has any abnormalities.
  2. Eye movement (electrooculogram or EOG.) An EOG is used to determine how many times the patient has awoken throughout the night and is used to track the rate the eyes move.
  3. Muscle activity (electromyogram or EMG.) An EMG test is done by measuring the muscle activity in your mouth and throat by placing small electronic disks on your neck or chin to measure any activity there.
  4. Heart rate and rhythm (electrocardiogram or EKG.) An EKG is used to monitor your heartbeat rhythms. It can be used in a sleep apnea test to determine your breathing patterns and to see if you are pumping enough oxygen throughout your body.
  5. Blood oxygen saturation (pulse oximetry.) This is commonly done to test how much oxygen is in your blood while you are sleeping. If you do not have enough oxygen in your blood, it can cause brain damage from oxygen starvation.
  6. Breathing patterns (nasal airflow sensor and respiratory effort sensor.) This test determines how you breathe while you are asleep. This is important to know as it can show the doctors how you have an abdominal breathing pattern that causes sleep apnea.

Based on these parameters, a specialist can determine if you have sleep apnea and the severity of the condition.

Testing Sleep Apnea at Home

If visiting a sleep clinic is not an option for you, there are also home sleep study kits available that can be used to measure some of these parameters while you sleep at home. These kits will not be as precise or as good as going to a sleep clinic or the hospital but will still be able to give you a rough diagnosis.

However, before you conduct a home test, it is important to consult a doctor, medical specialist, or sleep specialist before attempting any home sleep study to ensure that it is appropriate for your situation.

Here at CK Dental in the Lakewood, CO, area, our professional dentists will help you with all your dental needs, from sleep apnea dentistry to cosmetic dentistry. Book an appointment and let our friendly medical staff help you get a full night’s sleep.

Acid Reflux Could be a Symptom of Sleep Apnea

People who suffer from a condition called acid reflux often have difficulty sleeping at night, as acid reflux can be painful and make sleeping uncomfortable. Did you know that there is a known link between acid reflux and sleep apnea. Acid reflux could be a symptom of sleep apnea.

Acid reflux is an uncomfortable condition that is caused by stomach acid traveling back up your esophagus. Acid reflux is a common issue for many people; however, over-the-counter medication may help to minimize the effects.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Gastroesophageal reflux, which is also known as acid reflux, is a common condition that affects many adults. The condition is actually quite serious as untreated it can damage your esophagus with acid burns.

The muscles that are found at the bottom of the esophagus are supposed to stop any stomach acid from going up the esophagus. However, if the muscles are weak or relaxed, the acid may travel up the esophagus, causing acid reflux.

For many people, acid reflux is an uncommon occurrence, but for some, the condition can lead to issues and pain symptoms.

Known Symptoms of Acid Reflux

The symptoms of acid reflux are more noticeable at night, with symptoms often waking people up from them or causing people to suffer from sleep apnea.

The symptoms are:

  • Acid reflux can cause heartburn, a searing pain that feels as if your heart is on fire.
  • Chest pains that can also affect other areas of the body nearby. This includes the neck, back, and jaw.
  • It can cause people to have a difficult time sleeping.
  • It can cause people to wake up feeling like they are choking or that they need to cough.
  • It can cause people to have a sore throat and a difficult time swallowing.
  • Acid reflux can make people’s voices coarse and rough sounding.

Why is Acid Reflux Linked to Sleep Apnea

Acid reflux is known to be stronger at night. This is because as people are lying down on their beds, gravity is no longer keeping the acid down in the stomach. Instead, it allows the acid to travel up the esophagus and reach your mouth.

As sleep apnea can cause people to stop breathing, the air pressure from the lungs will change as a result. The change in pressure may cause acid reflux. The acid from the stomach is pushed up the esophagus and where it can burn and cause throat pain. Which may lead to disturbed sleeping patterns.

Acid reflux can also cause the throat muscles and the vocal cords to go into spasms, which may lead to trouble breathing. The acid in your stomach can also cause damage to your teeth by melting them away, leading you to need your teeth to be replaced or repaired. Dental implants may have to be done to replace any damaged teeth.

If you need a dental consultation for any damage that may have occurred from acid reflux, book an appointment with our friendly staff or contact Callahan and Klein Dental to see how we can help you get your beautiful smile and restful sleep back.

Teeth Grinding Could Be a Symptom of Sleep Apnea

Teeth grinding is a common symptom of sleep apnea, as the sleep-related movement caused by sleep apnea grinds or clenches your teeth. The condition of grinding or clenching the teeth is called Bruxism. You can have two types of bruxism. There is awake bruxism and sleep bruxism.

Sleep bruxism is a sleep-related disorder that is often caused by sleep apnea. It is common for people who do grind their sleep at night to also suffer from other sleeping disorders, such as snoring and pausing in breadth while sleeping.

How To Spot if You are Grinding Your Teeth

Sleep apnea can go undiagnosed for a long time, especially if you sleep alone. Therefore it can be difficult to spot. However, there are some ways to spot if you are suffering from sleep bruxism, especially if you grind your teeth while you sleep.

Even though you can grind your teeth during the day, it is usually done unconsciously.

The symptoms include:

  • Sore facial muscles, neck, and shoulders.
  • Pain in your jaw, which may lead to a condition called Temporomandibular disorder (TMB).
  • Worn down or broken teeth. This can lead to increased sensitivity and the loss of some teeth and fillings.
  • Constant ear aches.
  • Disrupted periods of sleep.
  • Constant headaches.

The dentists at Callahan & Klein have treatments that can help people dealing with teeth grinding caused by sleep apnea and can also prevent any further dental damage.

The Causes of Teeth Grinding

Currently, doctors do not fully understand all the causes of teeth grinding. However, there are some known causes of it.

Teeth grinding can often be linked to:

  • The most common cause of teeth grinding can be linked to stress and anxiety.
  • Sleep apnea and snoring
  • Certain medications can also cause people to grind their teeth, such as certain antidepressants.
  • If you smoke a lot, drink a lot of alcohol or caffeine, or take drugs such as cocaine or ecstasy.

Teeth grinding is also common with children and teenagers, especially while they are sleeping. Which is why it is so important that they get tested for sleep apnea. The condition is known to stop once they reach adulthood and have their adult teeth.

Can Teeth Grinding Be a Symptom of Sleep Apnea?

While there has been research that shows a connection between sleep apnea and people grinding their teeth, there is no known explanation of the correlation between the two. If sleep apnea causes an episode of the person to stop breathing while they sleep, it has been reported that they start to grind their teeth in response to wake the body. This when seeing a sleep apnea dentist is a good idea.

However, it can also happen in reverse. If the person starts to grind their teeth, the muscles that cause the grinding may also increase airway restrictions, leading to sleep apnea. 

If you are suffering from jaw pains or any of the symptoms listed above, please feel free to book an appointment or contact our friendly staff at Callahan & Klein Dental for expert treatment so that you may have a pleasant night’s rest.

 

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