I started using a CPAP machine for sleep apnea several months ago. Since then I had had many tooth problems. I have had two abceses and one tooth break away from the filling. hHas anyone else experienced anything like this?

Hi Sandy. I don't know of any reason CPAP or BIPAP should effect your teeth at all. I have worked alot with these patients and have not heard of a problem like this or any reason why there should be one caused by this. These are either worn with a nasal mask or nasal prongs. Hope this helped a little. Sam

[This message was edited by samantha on 08-22-02 at 11:30 PM.]

Samantha, Thanks for responding. I wear the nasal mask, and as you know, you can't breathe through your mouth while you are wearing it. I am wondering if maybe I am subconsciously clenching my teeth as I sleep. If so could this be causing my problem?

Sandy

Well, I honestly never heard of that before. I don't know if even clenching your teeth could cause that. I guess it is worth checking into with a doctor/dentist. My brother is a dentist I could ask him when he gets back in town if he has ever heard of this. I did do a check on the web and found this site, but, actually it talked about this not causing tooth decay..go figure..I will give you the web address in case your interested. Take care. Sam. www.sleepnet.com

[This message was edited by samantha on 08-23-02 at 09:15 AM.]

Thanks for the site. I will check it out for sure. I would love your brother's opinion. I am going to my dentist today, but if this is rare I would love a second opinion. It just seems weird that I would start having so many dental problems, all at once. I had never had a root canal before this!

Sandy

grinding/clenching teeth at nite can definitely cause such problems, the solution to which is being fitted for a bite guard to wear at nite.

Thanks Sid. I will try that. Thanks to you too Samantha. That is a very informative site!