The Link Between Oral Health and Restful Sleep

How St. Clair Tooth Co. Helps Detect Sleep Issues During National Sleep Month

March is National Sleep Month, making it the perfect time to focus on how your oral health plays a crucial role in achieving restful sleep. Many people don’t realize that their dentist can be the first line of defense in detecting sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and bruxism (teeth grinding), which can significantly impact sleep quality. At St. Clair Tooth Co., we are dedicated to helping our patients not only achieve healthy smiles but also better sleep.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. reported not getting enough rest or sleep every day. Nearly 40% of adults report falling asleep during the day without meaning to at least once a month. Also, an estimated 50 to 70 million Americans have chronic, or ongoing, sleep disorders.

How Oral Health Affects Sleep

Your mouth and airway are closely connected, meaning oral health conditions can often be a red flag for sleep issues. Here are some common ways dental health impacts your rest:

• Sleep Apnea & Snoring: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing interruptions in breathing. Dentists can spot signs such as worn teeth, a scalloped tongue, or redness in the throat from snoring and disrupted airflow.
• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Grinding or clenching your teeth at night can lead to headaches, jaw pain, and poor sleep. Dentists often notice excessive tooth wear and can provide solutions to protect your teeth and improve sleep quality.
• TMJ Disorders: Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) issues can cause discomfort, jaw clicking, and muscle tension that disrupt sleep. Proper dental care can alleviate these symptoms and promote better rest.

How Dentists Detect Sleep Issues

During a routine dental exam, we look for key signs that could indicate a sleep-related problem:

• Tooth wear patterns that suggest grinding or clenching.
• Enlarged tonsils or airway obstructions that may contribute to sleep apnea.
• Jaw alignment issues that could affect breathing and sleep posture.
• Patient-reported symptoms such as dry mouth, headaches, or excessive daytime fatigue.

If we identify potentialconcerns, we can collaborate with sleep specialists to ensure you receive aproper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Improving Sleep Through BetterOral Health

Good oral health can contributeto better sleep. Here’s how you can take action:

• Use a Night Guard: If you grind your teeth, a  custom night guard can prevent damage and reduce discomfort.
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing,     flossing, and regular dental check-ups keep your mouth healthy and free     from infections that can disrupt sleep.
• Consider an Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea: If diagnosed with mild to moderate sleep apnea, a custom-fitted oral     appliance can help keep your airway open at night.
• Stay Hydrated & Avoid Caffeine Before Bed: Dry mouth and caffeine consumption can interfere with your ability to     sleep soundly.

Schedule Your Screening Today

At St. Clair Tooth Co., we careabout more than just your teeth—we care about your overall well-being. Ifyou’re experiencing sleep issues or want to ensure your oral health supportsrestful sleep, schedule an appointment with us today. Let’s make this NationalSleep Month your best-rested one yet!