Could the Wear on Your Teeth Be Caused by Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition that causes your breathing to stop and start as you sleep, not only leads to snoring, headaches, fatigue and various health issues, it can cause scalloped tongue and, much worse, close off your airway. The muscles in your throat and tongue become too relaxed, resulting in a collapsed airway and blocked airflow.Sleep apnea also can cause wear, a problem that’s often treated with a nightguard. But it’s important to understand that if sleep apnea is the reason your teeth are worn down, a standard nightguard might actually make the problem worse. Why? Standard nightguards are designed specifically for patients who grind or clench. While they serve as a protective barrier between upper and lower teeth, they also may allow your jaw to fall back during sleep—further narrowing your airway and worsening your apnea.