Do You Compromise On Your Sleep? Here’s How It Affects Your Oral Health

The effect of lack of sleep on the mind and body is undisputed. But do you know that inadequate sleep also leads to oral health complications? You also risk developing periodontitis, gum inflammation, and bruxism. Read on to learn about the connection between lack of sleep and its effect on oral health.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis happens due to the growth of bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria multiply and wreak havoc on your gums by killing the tissue that protects your teeth and forming pockets where your gums and teeth meet. As a result of these pockets, your teeth become loose, which also obliterates the bone that supports your teeth. You will have receding gums, bad breath, sensitivity, and pain while chewing as symptoms of periodontitis.

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It may seem surprising, but a lack of sleep can cause periodontitis. Generally, poor oral health is a common cause of this illness. But according to a study, inadequate sleep has been linked to the onset of periodontitis. Another study explored the association between sleep deprivation and long-term periodontitis and found that those with sleep deprivation have a higher risk of developing periodontitis.

Gum Inflammation

One of the early signs of periodontitis is when you begin to develop swollen gums. This is an early form of gum disease known as gingivitis. If the condition is left unattended, it could lead to advanced gum disease. The study stated that when you are not getting enough sleep, the chances that your body produces inflammation increases, which in turn increases the risk of gingivitis.

You may feel dizzy when you are not getting enough sleep. The common instinct after this would be to drink more coffee in the morning, which is also harmful to your oral health, as it leads to teeth stains and decay.

Risk Of Bruxism

Bruxism is when you tend to clench or grunt your teeth involuntarily. This can happen either during the day or at night. When this happens during the day, it is known as awake bruxism; when this happens during the night, it is known as sleep bruxism. It can be a sign you are not getting enough sleep if you are constantly unintentionally clenching or grinding your teeth. Sleep issues, including snoring and apnoea, are more prevalent in people who brux at night. If untreated, bruxism can result in jaw abnormalities, broken or misaligned teeth, and other dental problems.

Also Read: Biting Your Nails? Know How It Can Affect Your Teeth And Gums

Weakens Immune System

The immune system is essential to the body's general health. It offers several lines of defence against infections and potentially fatal diseases. A robust immune system also helps maintain teeth and gum health. But compromising on sleep can be dangerous as your defensive proteins that help your body repair more quickly after exposure to illnesses slows down. Additionally, it lowers the level of antibodies that fights infections. If your immune system is weakened, your oral health, along with your overall health, will face the consequences.

The most important takeaway is to ensure you get enough sleep. This will boost your overall health, including oral health, keeping you active and alert throughout the day.

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