Nassau Standard

Michelle Sands, Sleep Apnea Director at Silent Night Therapy, stated that when a patient suffers from teeth grinding or clenching, it can be caused by sleep apnea.

"We understand the importance of assessing for potential sleep apnea before crafting a mouthguard for teeth protection," said Sands. "Mouth guards or oral appliances can't be deliberately bought, they need a previous diagnosis. Teeth grinding or clenching can sometimes be indicative of an underlying sleep apnea condition."

According to Cleveland Clinic, in the past, dental mouth guards were commonly crafted to protect patients from teeth grinding, while sports mouth guards were used to prevent injuries during physical activities. However, it is crucial to differentiate between these dental devices and medical devices designed to address specific health conditions.

"Recent studies highlight the potential risks of providing a mouth guard for teeth grinding without first evaluating the patient for sleep apnea. In fact, research suggests that using the wrong appliance can exacerbate the apnea condition, with studies indicating a potential worsening of at least 40% or more," said Sands.

Sands emphasized the importance of proper assessments before recommending oral appliances. "Given these findings, it's essential for dental practitioners to exercise caution and conduct thorough assessments before recommending or providing any oral appliances. Our practice emphasizes the importance of proper training for our hygienists and providers, enabling them to identify potential signs and red flags associated with sleep airway disorders. These signs may include worn teeth, grinding, clenching, and other common symptoms indicative of a possible sleep-related breathing disorder. Our goal is to furnish them with the right appliance. While one type serves as a medical device and the other solely safeguards the teeth, our oral appliance achieves both purposes. It effectively addresses the apnea condition while also protecting the teeth," she said.

According to Cleveland Clinic, it can take some time to get used to a mouth guard. If someone purchases one that does not fit quite right, it can cause soreness in the teeth, gums or jaw. Generally, custom-made mouth guards are more comfortable than store-bought ones. No matter what type of mouthguard the patient has, their dentist can check it and make any necessary adjustments.

According to the Silent Night Therapy website, Sands entered the practice in 2011 with over 25 years of experience as a Registered Dental Hygienist. Currently holding the position of Sleep Apnea Director, she is recognized for her commitment to help and listen, prioritizing patient care over product sales and recognizing that everyone has a unique story.