Does cpap use cause tooth cavities?

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition in which the airway collapses or becomes blocked during sleep. CPAP therapy involves wearing a mask that delivers pressurized air to the airway, helping to keep it open during sleep.

There is some evidence to suggest that CPAP therapy may be associated with an increased risk of tooth cavities. One study found that people who used CPAP therapy were more likely to have cavities than people who did not use CPAP therapy. The study authors suggested that the increased risk of cavities may be due to the dry mouth that can occur with CPAP therapy.

Dry mouth can occur with CPAP therapy because the pressurized air can dry out the mouth. Saliva helps to protect teeth from cavities by washing away food particles and bacteria. When the mouth is dry, there is less saliva to protect teeth, which can increase the risk of cavities.

In addition, CPAP therapy can cause people to breathe through their mouths, which can also lead to dry mouth. Mouth breathing can dry out the mouth because the air that is breathed in through the mouth is not as humid as the air that is breathed in through the nose.

If you are using CPAP therapy, there are a few things you can do to help reduce your risk of tooth cavities:

* Use a humidifier. A humidifier can help to add moisture to the air, which can help to prevent dry mouth.

* Drink plenty of water. Drinking plenty of water can help to keep your mouth moist and wash away food particles and bacteria.

* Brush and floss your teeth regularly. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can help to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and help to prevent cavities.

* See your dentist regularly. Seeing your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings can help to identify and treat any cavities that may develop.

If you are experiencing dry mouth with CPAP therapy, talk to your doctor or dentist. They can recommend ways to manage dry mouth and reduce your risk of tooth cavities.