High-quality sleep plays a crucial role in pain management. This relationship can be explained by endorphin production, muscle recovery, and the reduction of inflammatory agent synthesis. However, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can exacerbate pain symptoms through several mechanisms, including neural sensitivity, sympathetic system activation, inflammatory agent production, and sleep fragmentation.
The bruxism Furthermore, bruxism is frequently observed in sleep apnea patients. In fact, studies indicate that half of OSA patients suffer from bruxism.
This study evaluated 71 patients with bruxism, TMD, and sleep apnea, dividing them into three groups based on severity: mild, moderate, or severe OSA.
Tomographic scans were performed to assess condylar volume.
Results showed that moderate to severe sleep apnea is a risk factor for orofacial pain, sleep bruxism, and condylar alterations, potentially affecting condylar volume and surface area. To mitigate these effects, it is essential to treat OSA with appropriate therapies, as doing so contributes to orofacial pain reduction, decreases nocturnal teeth grinding, and helps prevent long-term condylar deterioration.
The oral appliances s has proven effective in treating sleep apnea and managing bruxism. In these cases, a dental surgeon specializing in sleep dentistry is the most qualified professional to provide treatment.
By Dr. Walter Silva Júnior
Sleep dentist certified by the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine (ABDSM).
Ph.D. in Sleep Medicine at the Hospital for Rehabilitation of Craniofacial Anomalies/University of São Paulo – Bauru, São Paulo.
Website: http://www.institutowaltersilva.com.br/
Instagram: @walter_silva_odontologiadosono
REFERENCE: Obstructive sleep apnea: a follow-up
program in its relation to temporomandibular joint disorder, sleep bruxism and orofacial pain.
Ruoyu Ning et al.
BMC Oral Health (2023) 23:578
The Biologix Sleep Test®
Diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea is both simple and essential.
The Biologix Sleep Test® is a remote polysomnography that monitors oxygen saturation, heart rate, actigraphy, and snoring using a smartphone microphone.
Designed for at-home use, this test offers a simple yet effective method for healthcare practitioners to diagnose and monitor sleep apnea. At bedtime, the patient only needs to place the sensor on their finger and start the test in the Biologix app. Upon waking up the next morning, after finishing the test, the result will be available at the exam portal in a matter of seconds.
