Are you spending sleepless nights? If so, did you know that insomnia can negatively impact your oral health? The information below explains why this can happen.
How Insomnia is Linked to Periodontitis
Life today can be hectic, which means it can be hard to relax and get a full night's sleep. Some people don't realize that not getting their needed sleep can lead to poor oral health. In fact, research reveals that the amount of sleep you get each night is directly related to the onset of advanced gum disease. During this phase of the disease, deep pockets develop between the gums and teeth. When this happens, the teeth loosen and the bone deteriorates. Moreover, one study, conducted by the Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, showed how certain components of a person's lifestyle led to the development of periodontitis. Gum disease risk increased when workers received under seven hours of sleep nightly.
The Less You Sleep the Higher the Level of Inflammation
A lack of sleep, according to researchers, increases the level of inflammation in the gum tissue. Therefore, the body produces added inflammatory hormones when it is not sufficiently rested – inflammation that leads to gingivitis and then advanced gum disease. When the inflammation levels increase, so does the risk for heart disease, stroke, obesity, and Alzheimer's disease. Also, when insomnia is factored into your oral health, it can also cause you to make the wrong decisions about taking care of your gums and teeth. That is why oral health professionals support quality levels of sleep.
We believe it is important for your physical and oral health to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Make sleep a priority and find ways to beat any problems with insomnia. Doing so will make a big difference in your dental checkups and your periodontal health. If you have not had a checkup in a while, give us a call to schedule an appointment for an exam and cleaning now.