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Friday, February 16, 2018

GERD and Sleep Apnea

When we repair and replace teeth at the Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, we are often fixing damage caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Acid reflux causes enamel erosion on the back teeth, making them more sensitive. In order to prevent it, patients need to understand how it has been linked to another disease with dental repercussions, obstructive sleep apnea.


The two diseases are often comorbid and mostly occur in people who are overweight. It is possible that one contributes to the other. When people suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, their bodies move their jaws in an attempt to keep their airways open. They may be doing this in response to the acid in their esophagi obstructing air flow. When people grind their teeth in their sleep, enamel is lost and they often wake up with pain in their teeth, as well as their jaw, head, and neck muscles. This pain may also cause them to get less or lower-quality sleep.


Recent studies have shown that common treatments for sleep apnea, such as CPAP machines, also reduce the frequency of acid reflux, leading scientists to think sleep apnea may cause the brain to send a signal which contributes to acid reflux. Other things people can do to reduce their risk of acid reflux include cutting back on dairy and fatty meats, as well as onions, garlic, alcohol, and chocolate, and avoiding large meals before bed.


Frederick Shaw, DDS, operates the Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group at 1500 W 38th Street, Suite 34, Austin, Texas, 78731. To schedule an appointment, call 512-451-7491 or visit Frederick Shaw DDS and fill out a contact form.


 

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