Frequency of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Patients Presenting with Tooth Fractures: A Prospective Controlled Study

Several factors in the pathophysiology of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may increase the likelihood of excessive occlusal loads. Increased occlusal loads may compromise a tooth's mechanical resistance. This prospective controlled study assessed the frequency of OSA in patients presenting with tooth fracture. Patients with and without tooth fractures were selected in a consecutive manner from a private dental clinic between February 2018 and January 2020. Demographic and dental variables were registered. A parafunctional habits questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, and validated respiratory polygraphy were performed. Descriptive, comparative, and correlation statistical analyses were performed. Multiple regression analysis was also performed. Fifty-nine patients were included, and 29 presented tooth fracture. Patients with a tooth fracture formed the case group and patients without tooth fracture formed the control group. Patient age was significantly higher in the case group (59 +/- 13 years) compared to the control group (44 +/- 11 years). Most of the fractured teeth were molars, had a natural tooth as an antagonist, and were not endodontically treated. Twenty-one patients had OSA (apnea-hypopnea index: >= 5 events per hour) in the case group compared with 12 patients in the control group (P = .027). Moreover, the patients in the case group had a significantly higher apnea-hypopnea index (P = .000). Multiple regression analysis showed that only age had a significant effect on tooth fracture (P = .002). However, there was a statistically significant relationship between OSA and the presence of tooth fracture in patients aged >= 40 years (P = .041). OSA was more frequent in patients presenting with tooth fractures. Int J Periodontics Restorative Dent 2023;43:121-127. doi: 10.11607/prd.5461

Automated summary

This study aimed to assess the frequency of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients presenting with tooth fracture. The study found that among patients with tooth fractures, 21 had OSA compared to 12 in the control group. Age was the only factor significantly associated with tooth fracture. There was a significant relationship between OSA and tooth fracture in patients aged 40 and above.