Drooling can be cute when it comes to babies and puppies, but when you’re an adult, it’s not ideal. In addition to being kind of gross, it can also be messy and embarrassing. However, while a little spittle is normal occasionally, if you’ve been waking up with puddles of excess saliva on your pillow, it could be an indication of a bigger problem. Here’s why drooling may be a warning sign of sleep apnea, and what you can do to have drier, more comfortable nights.
What Causes Drooling?
Although the root cause behind your drooling can vary, it typically occurs either because you’re producing excessive amounts of saliva (sialorrhea), have problems swallowing, or struggle to keep your saliva contained within your mouth due to conditions like mouth breathing.
How Does Sleep Apnea Increase Drooling?
Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder which causes your airway to become blocked during sleep. This in turn makes you gasp or choke for air, repeatedly waking you throughout the night. It can also cause mouth-breathing, which can not only worsen your sleep apnea symptoms, but also cause you to drool.
How Can My Dentist Treat Sleep Apnea?
The good news is that you don’t have to struggle to get a good night’s sleep with OSA, nor do you have to wake up with a soggy pillow thanks to drooling. A comfortable, convenient oral sleep appliance can help position your airway open naturally, so you are able to breathe properly during rest, eliminating the apnea episodes that wake you up and cause you to mouth-breathe and drool throughout the evening.
Oral appliance therapy works in lieu of (or sometimes in conjunction with) CPAP machines, so you don’t need to rely on uncomfortable masks or forced air to get results. Best of all, they are small, discreet, and require no electricity or attachments, so even with an OSA diagnosis you can travel with ease.
Remember, while it may be embarrassing to still be drooling as an adult, the good news is that if your excess saliva is due to sleep apnea, it can be prevented with oral appliance therapy from your dentist. To learn more about treating your OSA with one of these comfortable, discreet devices, speak to your dentist today.
About Dr. Hinkle
Dr. Roth Hinkle earned his dental degree at Baylor University as one of four students welcomed to the Dual Degree Advanced Placement Program at Baylor College of Dentistry. He then went on to achieve the General Dentistry Program Award. Today, he is pleased to share his in-depth knowledge and skills right here in Southlake. If you are suffering from the debilitating side-effects of obstructive sleep apnea, it’s time to put this condition to bed and schedule a consultation with Hinkle Family Dental for sleep apnea therapy. You can book your appointment by visiting our website, or by calling 817-481-4888.
