In 2014 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) concluded that an estimated 50 to 70 million adults in the U.S. suffer from insomnia or other sleep disorders.
We know there are adverse effects to overall health that come from poor sleep, but can insomnia ruin your dental health if you are not careful?
Let’s examine how sleep problems can affect your oral health and what you can do about it.
Chronic Insomnia
Everyone has a bad night’s sleep here and there, but not sleeping through the night for more than three nights a week for at least three months, is considered chronic insomnia and it can affect your overall health. You will be surprised to find out that lack of sleep also affects your oral health if you don’t take care of it.
Insomnia and Oral Health
Not many would associate insomnia with oral health, however, there are several conditions that can do just that. Nocturnal Eating Syndrome, is considered a sleep disorder where people get out of bed to eat and they usually don’t brush their teeth before returning to bed. This can create a serious dental problem.
Bruxism – the grinding or clenching of the teeth while sleeping – can be so severe that it wakes you or your partner. This problem can crack dental work and affect how your jaw works.
You may not think that insomnia can ruin your dental health if you are not careful, but millions of Americans suffer from this condition. If you have something to eat while awake in the middle of the night, try to remember to brush your teeth and floss, if possible. If you get thirsty while awake, reach out for some water instead of drinks that contain sugar.