By Dr. Jolee Roberts, DDS

When most people think about oral health, they usually think about brushing, flossing, and keeping their teeth cavity-free. But here’s something I often tell my patients: oral health goes far beyond a bright smile—it plays a major role in how well you sleep and breathe.

As a general and cosmetic dentist, I’ve seen firsthand how issues in the mouth can impact sleep quality, breathing patterns, and even overall energy levels. Many people are surprised to learn that conditions like sleep apnea, snoring, and teeth grinding can all be connected to dental health. And the good news? Dentists can help.

Let’s dive into how your mouth affects your sleep—and what we can do to help you rest easier and breathe better.

The Mouth’s Role in Sleep and Breathing

Your mouth is more than a place for chewing and smiling—it’s a critical part of your airway. The position of your jaw, the size of your tongue, and even the alignment of your teeth can influence how freely air flows while you sleep.

When these structures aren’t in balance, breathing can become restricted. This can lead to disrupted sleep, daytime fatigue, and long-term health issues if left untreated.

One of the most common issues I see related to sleep and oral health is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep, often due to the tongue or soft tissues in the throat collapsing. This blockage causes pauses in breathing—sometimes dozens of times an hour—followed by gasping or choking as the body struggles to get air.

People with sleep apnea may snore loudly, wake up feeling tired, and struggle with concentration or mood during the day. It’s more than just a nuisance—it can raise the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and other serious health problems.

Many people don’t realize they have sleep apnea, but as a dentist, I can sometimes spot the signs during a routine exam.

How Dentists Can Help Identify Sleep Issues

During dental visits, I often ask patients about their sleep—do they feel rested in the morning? Do they snore? Have they been told they stop breathing during the night? These questions can uncover possible sleep problems.

I also look for signs in the mouth that might suggest airway issues:

• Worn-down teeth from grinding or clenching, often linked to disturbed sleep.
  
• A small or recessed jaw, which can reduce airway space.
  
• A scalloped tongue, which may indicate pressure against the teeth from a crowded airway.
  
• Enlarged tonsils or other soft tissue concerns.
  

If I suspect a patient might have sleep apnea, I refer them for a sleep study, often in collaboration with their physician or a sleep specialist. Early detection is key—and as dentists, we’re in a great position to catch these red flags early.

Oral Appliances for Better Sleep

For patients diagnosed with mild to moderate sleep apnea, or those who can’t tolerate a CPAP machine (the standard treatment), I often recommend oral appliance therapy. These are custom-made devices that fit like a mouthguard and help keep the airway open during sleep.

By gently repositioning the lower jaw and tongue, these appliances prevent airway collapse, reduce snoring, and improve breathing. They’re comfortable, portable, and can be life-changing for people struggling with sleep-disordered breathing.

I work closely with patients to ensure the fit is just right, and we monitor progress over time. The goal? Restful sleep and better health.

The Impact of Teeth Grinding

Another common issue that affects both sleep and oral health is bruxism, or teeth grinding. Many people grind their teeth at night without even realizing it. Over time, this can lead to headaches, jaw pain, damaged teeth, and yes—interrupted sleep.

Stress often plays a role, but airway obstruction can be a hidden cause, too. When the body senses difficulty breathing, it may respond with clenching or grinding as a way to “wake up” the airway.

If I see signs of grinding, I often recommend a nightguard to protect the teeth. But I also look deeper—if sleep quality is poor, we explore whether breathing issues might be contributing.

Kids and Sleep-Related Dental Issues

Sleep and breathing problems don’t just affect adults—they can show up in children, too. Kids with enlarged tonsils, narrow jaws, or tongue ties may struggle with mouth breathing, restless sleep, or even behavioral challenges.

As a dentist, I check for these issues during regular exams and work with families to find solutions. Sometimes, early orthodontic treatment or collaboration with an ENT specialist can make a big difference.

Final Thoughts

Your smile is important—but your ability to breathe and sleep well is essential. As a dentist, I’m passionate about looking at the whole picture, not just the teeth in front of me. When we take the time to understand how oral health affects sleep and breathing, we can help our patients live healthier, more energized lives.

If you’re feeling tired during the day, waking up with headaches, or have been told you snore, don’t brush it off—talk to your dentist. A better night’s sleep might start with your next dental visit.

Because beyond the smile, there’s a whole world of health—and we’re here to help you thrive.