Dr Hillel New has been telling his patients and colleagues for some years now about a suspected link between Sleep Apnoea (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea – OSA) and tooth grinding / clenching (Bruxism).
In an article published last month in the Journal of Oral Implantology, scientists in Spain published the findings from a study in which they were investigating how OSA affects implants and their restorations.
The researchers found that 16 of 67 patients included in the study experienced complications of which 13 had OSA. The reported complications varied, some were simple porcelain breakages and others screw or implant fractures. The researchers noted a strong relationship between individuals who suffer from OSA and those that clenched and grind their teeth either while asleep or awake.
“At CDIC (Cosmetic Dental & Implant Centre), Facelab and the All On 4 Clinics, we have been aware of this for some time and have implemented measures to reduce these implant treatment complications”. Dr New adds. “I am also very concerned for those patients who don’t have implant restorations and are breaking and damaging their teeth without realising the link between OSA and tooth grinding”. “The added benefit for the patients we treat is the improvement in sleep patterns and reduction in the damaging effects OSA has on the entire body”.
Dr Hillel New can be seen for a consultation at his Malvern Rooms – Cosmetic Dental & Implant Centre. Call 95097356 for a consultation today.
