Getting enough quality sleep is vital for good health and well-being. However, many people suffer from poor sleep due to various causes. One factor that can significantly impact sleep is poor oral health. Issues, like tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems, can all contribute to disrupted and unsatisfying sleep. Read on to learn about ways poor oral health can affect your quality of sleep.
Give You a Lack of Comfort
One of the most direct ways poor oral health impacts sleep is simply a lack of comfort. Problems like toothaches, irritated gums, and denture discomfort can make it very difficult to get relaxed and fall asleep. Even if you manage to doze off, these nagging pains and irritations may wake you frequently throughout the night. Visiting a dentist office for exams and any necessary treatment can help diagnose and resolve any issues leading to discomfort.
Make Breathing Difficult
Some oral health issues can also make breathing more challenging during sleep. For example, gum disease may cause swelling and inflammation in the gums, tongue, or roof of the mouth. This can restrict airflow. Missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures can also impact support for airways. A professional at a dentist office will carefully evaluate your mouth, teeth, and gums to identify any problems that may be obstructing breathing. They can provide solutions, like dental implants, to replace missing teeth or treatments to reduce swelling.
Increase Stress and Anxiety
Finally, coping with dental problems can also create stress, anxiety, and depression that interfere with high-quality sleep. Not only do issues like toothaches and gum disease hurt, but they can be expensive to treat. Financial stress coupled with the discomfort and frustration of poor oral health takes a toll. A non-judgmental, compassionate dentist office should recognize this and take steps to reduce any dental anxiety. They should clearly explain treatment plans and costs and help patients find affordable options.
Poor sleep affects overall health and well-being in so many ways. It reduces immunity, concentration, memory, mood, and more. Properly caring for your teeth can help. According to a report from the National Library for Medicine, 1 out of 5 Americans never floss. Additionally, visiting a dentist office for regular dental exams and prompt treatment at the first signs of problems can go a long way towards protecting your oral health and your quality of sleep. If you need to make a visit to a dentist office, then call us to book an appointment.