🧠 How Sleep Apnea Can Worsen Gum Disease Over Time

Chronic Inflammation

Sleep apnea causes repeated drops in oxygen levels during sleep (intermittent hypoxia). In response, the body releases inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and TNF-alpha. These chemicals contribute to systemic inflammation, which also affects gum tissues. Over time, this persistent inflammation can weaken the gums and surrounding bone, accelerating the progression of periodontitis.

Impaired Healing and Immune Response

Poor sleep quality and disrupted oxygen flow impair the body's ability to heal and fight infections. That includes the immune response in the mouth. As a result, even mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) may progress more easily to advanced gum disease, especially if left untreated.

Mouth Breathing and Dry Mouth

People with sleep apnea often breathe through their mouths at night. This leads to dry mouth (xerostomia), which reduces saliva production. Saliva plays a vital role in controlling oral bacteria. With less of it, plaque builds up faster, and harmful bacteria thrive — both of which increase the risk of gum disease.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Sleep apnea is linked to nighttime teeth grinding, which puts extra stress on teeth and gums. Over time, this can cause gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth mobility, worsening periodontal issues.

Delayed Detection

Because sleep apnea and gum disease both progress silently in early stages, the connection often goes unnoticed until moderate or severe damage has occurred. By that point, both conditions may be more difficult to manage.

Need Sleep Apnea Testing?

As a Sleep Specialist at Shasta Sleep Services, I work directly with patients to diagnose and treat obstructive sleep apnea using simple, non-invasive methods — including at-home sleep testing. If you're experiencing symptoms like snoring, dry mouth, fatigue, or persistent gum issues, it may be time to consider how your sleep is affecting your health.

Testing is quick, comfortable, and can provide real answers. Getting the right treatment doesn’t just improve your sleep — it can also lower inflammation and support better oral health.

Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect your sleep — it can create a biological environment where gum disease progresses faster and heals slower. That’s why it’s so important to address both conditions together. Treating sleep apnea can reduce inflammation, improve oxygen flow, and support better oral health outcomes.

Take Care of your smile! (and your sleep!)

Cassie Wrede, RDHAP

Sleep Specialist | Registered Dental Hygienist Alternative Practice