Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Sleep Apnea?

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The relationship between wisdom teeth and sleep apnea is a subject of growing interest in the dental and medical communities. Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder, and understanding its potential causes can be vital for seeking effective treatment. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information on whether wisdom teeth can cause sleep apnea and what steps can be taken if you suspect this to be the case.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur 30 or more times per hour.
The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when throat muscles fail to keep airways open despite the effort to breathe.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop and usually emerge in late teens or early twenties. Potential complications of wisdom teeth include crowding, infections, and impactions if there isn’t enough space for them to emerge properly.

The Connection Between Wisdom Teeth and Sleep Apnea

While sleep apnea can be caused by various factors such as obesity, age, and genetics, there is also some debate regarding the role of wisdom teeth.

• Restricted Airway: When wisdom teeth do not have enough space to grow properly, they can become impacted. Some dental professionals believe that this impaction can lead to the shifting of other teeth and changes in the structure of the jaw. This, in turn, could potentially cause constriction in the airway, contributing to obstructive sleep apnea.
• Swelling and Infections: Impacted or infected wisdom teeth can cause swelling in the throat area, which may narrow the airway and contribute to sleep apnea.

What the Research Says

Research on the connection between wisdom teeth and sleep apnea is limited, and more studies are needed to establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. However, understanding the potential link can be an important consideration, especially for those who have sleep apnea and are also dealing with complications related to wisdom teeth.

Steps to Take if You Suspect a Connection

• Document Your Symptoms: Keep a record of your sleep patterns and any issues with your wisdom teeth.
• Consult a Dentist: Discuss your concerns with your dentist, especially if you’re experiencing pain or discomfort from your wisdom teeth.
• See a Sleep Specialist: If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s also crucial to consult a sleep specialist.
• Comprehensive Evaluation: Both your dentist and sleep specialist should work together to determine if there is a connection between your wisdom teeth and sleep apnea.
• Personalized Treatment Plan: If a connection is established, a personalized treatment plan that addresses both your wisdom teeth and sleep apnea may be developed.

Bottom Line

There is still much to be explored regarding the direct relationship between wisdom teeth and sleep apnea. If you are experiencing sleep apnea symptoms and have concerns about your wisdom teeth, it is advisable to consult both a dentist and a sleep specialist. Addressing both issues promptly and developing a personalized treatment plan can be crucial in improving sleep quality and overall health.

This Q&A series article is complete and was published on July 18, 2023, and last updated on July 18, 2023.