Is Your Smile Sleep Deprived?
While few of us get enough of it, everyone needs it. Sleep is critical to your body’s everyday function. When we sacrifice hours of sleep to finish a job, prepare for an upcoming test or catch up on our favorite TV shows, our bodies will suffer. In fact, not getting enough sleep can impact nearly every part of your body, from your mind and metabolism to your immune system and oral health!
Did you realize that your sleep deprivation could compromise your smile health? Here’s how:
Periodontitis
How likely are dark circles under your eyes to co-exist with gum disease? A study conducted by The Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine found that individuals who got less than seven hours of sleep per night were at a much higher risk for periodontitis and inflamed gums. When the body is run down and depleted in sleep, it produces more inflammatory hormones. This inflammation can present itself within the gums. Untreated gum inflammation can lead to worsening stages of gum disease and even tooth loss.
Sleep Apnea
If sleep apnea (frequent episodes of waking up gasping for air) is what is causing your sleep deprivation, your dentist can offer help. Snoring and sleep apnea episodes that disrupt the quality of your sleep can be corrected using special oral appliances that reposition the jaw for better breathing. Dental sleep apnea treatments are often much more tolerable than CPAP machines!
TMJ Flare-Ups
Several studies confirm that sleep deprivation can make pain worse. Our brains tend to register stronger pain signals when the body is not fully rested. If you suffer from TMJ pain, this can aggravate your condition and even make it more difficult to sleep when you have the chance. In addition, people tend to clench and grind their teeth more when they are stressed. It’s no surprise that stress and sleep deprivation often go hand in hand.
Are you getting enough sleep? Be honest. Your body and smile will show its appreciation for making sleep a priority. If you are ready to improve your oral health, we can help you at Laguna West Dental.