Another Newbie Question ... Tooth Pain

[CMorrison64]

I went to my dentist a few weeks before my sleep study and she told me that CPAP users have a higher incident of tooth decay ... told me about biotene ... all fine and dandy.

Well I am noticing that the upper part of my upper teeth on the sides are very very sensitive since using CPAP. Is this caused from my mouth being shut all night now and the teeth together or is the mask rubbing on the outside causing sensitivity? Have never had sensitive teeth before. I plan on calling my dentist tomorrow; but just wondering what your thoughts were.

Thanks.

[guest2]

I went to my dentist shortly after starting cpap therapy and was surprised at his knowledge of OSA. He told me that dentists are actually trained to watch symptoms in their patients. He also told me that I should call him if I developed any sensitivity in my teeth or pain in my jaw as sometimes this can be caused by cpap therapy. He went on to explain that many people start grinding their teeth and that wearing the masks can cause jaw soreness especially for those that already have TMJ.
He also stated that if you already have sensitive teeth that the air flow, cold or warm, could cause added sensitivity.

[CMorrison64]

I went to my dentist shortly after starting cpap therapy and was surprised at his knowledge of OSA. He told me that dentists are actually trained to watch symptoms in their patients. He also told me that I should call him if I developed any sensitivity in my teeth or pain in my jaw as sometimes this can be caused by cpap therapy. He went on to explain that many people start grinding their teeth and that wearing the masks can cause jaw soreness especially for those that already have TMJ.
He also stated that if you already have sensitive teeth that the air flow, cold or warm, could cause added sensitivity.

Good to know; I have fairly good teeth and planned on keeping them that way. I do have TMJ but have never had sensitivity like this before, it's bad. Will call her tomorrow; thanks for your information.

[MarylandCPAPer]

Hi,

One thing to check if you having dental pain is whether part of your mask is pressing on the area in your gums or teeth that are now experiencing pain. Which mask are you using and where in your mouth are you experiencing pain?

My first mask was pressing on the gums near a tooth that previously had been sensitive. My DME rep immediately suggested a different mask that didn't put pressure on the affected gum area. This solved the problem right away. So, if you aren't having dental problems independent of CPAP, a call to your DME rep about the mask may help resolve your problem.

Unfortunately, I was switched to a third mask that I think is now exacerbating the original tooth pain, so I sympathize with your concerns and pain.

There are quite a few masks out there. Finding the right one that is comfortable for you is one of the rites of passage of successful CPAP treatment.

Good luck in getting relief from your dental pain.

[RickKC]

I just called my DME yesterday complaining of achy teeth. He said he had never heard of anyone having teeth problems after starting therapy. He told me to visit my doctor.

It's not hurting where the mask presses on my face, and it seems to be accompanied by swollen lymph glands. I know I'm struggling to find the right position for my jaw that allows me to breath and to keep my mask sealed around my face.

Maybe I need to find a different DME...

[MarylandCPAPer]

RickKC on Tue Apr 06, 2010 5:31 pm

I just called my DME yesterday complaining of achy teeth. He said he had never heard of anyone having teeth problems after starting therapy. He told me to visit my doctor.

It's not hurting where the mask presses on my face, and it seems to be accompanied by swollen lymph glands. I know I'm struggling to find the right position for my jaw that allows me to breath and to keep my mask sealed around my face.

Maybe I need to find a different DME...

Rick,

If there isn't an obvious connection between the achy teeth and pressure from the mask, I would go to the dentist, particularly if you also have swollen lymph glands. It may just be a coincidence that you are having dental problems while using CPAP and they may well be unrelated.

Sensodyne toothpaste can help with sensitive teeth (such as with sensitivity to hot or cold).

In my case, when I have had tooth pain, there was a part of the mask that was pressing on the gum area that correlated with the pain. I don't think achy teeth are a common side effect of CPAP use, so I would seek dental or medical attention rather than another DME.

Maryland CPAPer

[samwalker]

I've read somewhere that acupuncture can help stop pain while undergoing dental procedures or if you wish to go to the experts on this one, I strongly recommend going to dentistry roseville, dentists there can certainly take gentle care of your teeth.

[Country4ever]

Try using Sensodyne all the time. I've been using it for years because of sensitive teeth, and it works wonders.
Also, be sure you don't have a sinus problem.......especially if its your upper teeth that are sensitive. Many times a sinus problem/infection can cause very sensitive teeth.

[Jaylee]

At first I had some soreness from where the mask touched my mouth. It went away in a few days, which I am assuming was just my body adjusting to it.

[VicCPAP]

Any update on the lymph nodes? I have a CPAP and recently reduced my use of it, and am starting to use it again, my left lymph node is sometimes sore the day after wearing my full head mask, suggestions?