Periodontitis linked to obstructive sleep apnea

Periodontitis is inflammation of the ligaments and surrounding structures that support the teeth. Apparently it is associated with increase risk of heart disease. It is related to mouth breathing. Here is a study showing an increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients with periodontitis. It's not that surprising since many OSA patients breathe through their mouth at night, and wake up with dry mouth.