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+--- Thread: CPAP linked to dental problems?? (/Thread-CPAP-linked-to-dental-problems)
CPAP linked to dental problems?? - Roy289 - 07-20-2016
I wonder if there is a link between dental problems (long term) and CPAP therapy? In my case trying to achieve lower mask leaks and tightening of lower straps caused sores on my gums. Still working on achieving lower mask leaks with minimum success.
RE: CPAP linked to dental problems?? - srlevine1 - 07-20-2016
(07-20-2016, 07:51 PM)Roy289 Wrote: I wonder if there is a link between dental problems (long term) and CPAP therapy? In my case trying to achieve lower mask leaks and tightening of lower straps caused sores on my gums. Still working on achieving lower mask leaks with minimum success.
My dentist has noted a long-term (since 2008) displacement in my teeth and postulated (but could not confirm) that it may be due to tightened mask straps or the use of a chin strap. She also warned about the possible mask side-effects of TMJ.
Of course, this is dependent on the mask used. I am currently using a ResMed Mirage Activa LT with tightened lower straps.
RE: CPAP linked to dental problems?? - Roy289 - 07-20-2016
Pressure on the upper teeth is something I have as well and one reason for my question on long term dental issues. Wearing dental appliance can align teeth so having pressure on teeth 7 to 8 hrs per day may not be good.
RE: CPAP linked to dental problems?? - eseedhouse - 07-20-2016
(07-20-2016, 07:51 PM)Roy289 Wrote: I wonder if there is a link between dental problems (long term) and CPAP therapy? In my case trying to achieve lower mask leaks and tightening of lower straps caused sores on my gums. Still working on achieving lower mask leaks with minimum success.
I think that what you probably need is a better mask. Go back to your DME and insist. Keep insisting until you get one that works for you.
RE: CPAP linked to dental problems?? - justMongo - 07-20-2016
I'll throw this out there... dry mouth may do more damage that mechanical tension to the teeth.
RE: CPAP linked to dental problems?? - chill - 07-21-2016
It was dry mouth (mouth breathing, lip leaking) that sprang to mind for me. The tension on my mask straps seems very unlikely to cause dental displacement problems. The OSA dental devices that advance the lower jaw are a different story.
RE: CPAP linked to dental problems?? - PaulaO2 - 07-21-2016
Dry mouth will kill teeth faster than an overly tight mask will cause alignment issues. Saliva is important (very very important) for teeth health as its chemistry balances and takes care of the sugars that can cause cavities. Anything that messes with the saliva is bad for teeth.
If you have a mask that you have to keep so tight that healthy teeth and gums are hurting, you need a different mask. Period. Chin straps pull at the jaw in a different way and should not interfere with teeth.
If you think those teeth are NOT healthy, then take your mask with you to the dentist.
RE: CPAP linked to dental problems?? - OpalRose - 07-21-2016
When I first started Cpap, I was mouth breathing a lot. Two to three times a night, it would wake me with the sound of that air whooshing out of my mouth. i call it dry cotton mouth!
I started to have problems with my gums bleeding. I didn't realize other than the discomfort of the dry mouth how serious this was. My dentist took one look, and told me if I didn't get it under control, it would cause my teeth to loosen. That's when I took on the chin strap and learned the tongue technique. Never had a problem once I got that under control.
Although overtightening straps to the point of pain is not good, it shouldn't affect teeth and gums.