Drooling is the subject of a lot of jokes, but it is actually a common and very real issue! If you sometimes wakeup with a small damp spot on your pillow close to where your mouth was resting, it is possible that you were drooling during sleep. While occasional drooling might not be anything to worry about, frequent occurrences might point to a bigger problem. Drooling can even be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea! How are these issues connected? Continue reading below to find out.
How Is Drooling Related to Sleep Apnea?
Drooling is simply the word that describes the unintentional flow of saliva out of the mouth. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is a serious disorder that causes pauses in breathing throughout the night.
Initially, it might seem odd to draw any connection between drooling and sleep apnea. However, the link is easier to understand when you recognize that people with OSA frequently breathe through their mouth while sleeping. With their mouths open for hours at a time, drooling becomes a very real possibility.
Is Your Drooling a Sign of OSA?
Of course, the mere occurrence of drooling is not enough to arrive at an OSA diagnosis. You should look for additional signs as well, including:
- Loud, frequent snoring.
- Daytime exhaustion despite getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep.
- Morning sore throats or headaches.
- Difficulty concentrating or frequent mood swings.
- Waking up gasping for air.
- Frequent nighttime urination.
If you suspect you have OSA, it would be wise to schedule a professional evaluation so you can receive an official diagnosis and get started with treatment.
How to Stop Drooling and Breathe Better
There are a few different ways to treat OSA. The most commonly prescribed method is a CPAP machine, which uses pressurized air to prevent pauses in breathing. Unfortunately, Patients often dislike their machine because they view it as uncomfortable and inconvenient.
Many people find that an oral appliance from a dentist is better way to address OSA. It is a small, mouthguard-like device that slightly repositions the lower jaw. This supports better breathing and may help to prevent drooling.
Drooling on its own may not be a big deal, but in some cases, it points to a serious sleep disorder! Be aware of your symptoms so you can seek timely care if necessary.
Meet the Practice
At the Center for Contemporary Dentistry in Belmont, our team is proud to offer custom oral appliance therapy for members of our community. If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, or you are curious about CPAP alternatives, we would be happy to speak to you. Contact our office at 603-556-7047.