Roughly 10% of the Australian population suffer from sleep apnea (approx. 25% of men over 30) and up to 15 percent grind their teeth unconsciously during sleep.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is when the throat muscles relax too much whilst we are asleep. Your airway will narrow and as the air that you are breathing in travels down the back of the throat it creates vibrations – otherwise known as snoring. There are different degrees of sleep apnea with the most severe resulting in a total obstruction where breathing will cease, leading to fragmented sleep.

Who is more at risk?

Sleep apnea affects children and adults, however men over the age of 30 are more affected. It’s estimated that over half of severe sleep apnea cases in Australia are due to obesity.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

Symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Poor quality of sleep accompanied by loud snoring
• Difficulty staying asleep
• Fatigue during the day
• Headaches and dry mouth when waking in the morning
• Poor memory & slow reaction times
• Mood changes
• Depression or anxiety
• Reduced sex drive

What are the long term effects of sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea may lead to serious health problems such as heart trouble and high blood pressure. Due to the interrupted sleep, sleep apnea can affect people’s concentration during the day and affect driving ability.

What should I do if I think I have sleep apnea?

There are a number of products that can help with sleep apnea including oral appliances that can be used at home and be transported. For more information, book in with one of our dentists for a sleep assessment.

What is teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding, otherwise known as bruxism occurs during sleep and can be caused by an abnormal bite or sleep apnea.

What are the symptoms of teeth grinding?

Symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• Teeth grinding / clenching during the night
• Flattened or chipped teeth
• Worn teeth enamel
• Increased sensitivity
• Tight jaw muscles
• Jaw, neck or face pain
• Dull headaches

What are the long term effects of teeth grinding?

If left untreated, teeth grinding can lead to damage to your teeth, persistent headaches and jaw pain.

What can I do if I am grinding my teeth?

If you think you may grind your teeth during the night, visit an Our Medical Dental dentist and ask for more information regarding bite splints that can be worn at night to protect your teeth. Health fund rebates may be available. View the Ts & Cs here.

Book Online

Book an appointment online with your nearest dental clinic from the list below: NSW

• Dental Clinic Crows Nest
• Dental Clinic Dee Why
• Dental Clinic Gregory Hills
• Dental Clinic Marsden Park
• Dental Clinic Penrith

VIC

• Dental Clinic Cranbourne
• Dental Clinic Williams Landing

QLD

• Dental Clinic Ashmore
• Dental Clinic North Lakes