What does sleep have to do with your oral health?

Toronto is a fast-paced city that never seems to rest. People are constantly on the go, going from work to enjoying nightlife activities – making the most of every minute. Unfortunately, this hectic pace often comes at a cost; sleep often becomes one of the first things to suffer as people strive for more energy and enjoyment in their day. Although sleep may seem like an extravagance, it is actually quite necessary for overall well-being as well as oral health – making it important for Torontonians to prioritize sleeping and improve sleep hygiene in order to protect their teeth from further harm.

As previously discussed, lack of sleep can have serious repercussions for our oral health. When our immune response is compromised due to insufficient rest, inflammation in all parts of the body – including the mouth – increases. This inflammation has been known to lead to various oral health issues like gingivitis and periodontitis which cause redness, swelling, bleeding gums, or tooth loss.

Sleep is essential for our physical, mental, and oral health. So how can people prioritize sleep in a city that never seems to stop? Here are some tips:

Maintain a Schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. This will help regulate your body’s internal clock and make it easier for you to fall asleep at the right times.

Create a Bedtime Routine: Establish an effective bedtime ritual that helps you relax before going to sleep. This could include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing relaxation exercises.

Create a sleep sanctuary:Create an atmosphere of coolness, darkness, and silence in your bedroom, as well as invest in comfortable bedding and pillows. Turn off all electronics at least an hour before bed and avoid using phones or laptops while lying down. Bedroom wall colours have a significant impact on our moods and emotions, and they can play a role in promoting a calming and restful sleep environment. Colours such as blue, green, and lavender are known to promote relaxation and calmness, making them excellent choices for bedrooms. Blue, in particular, has been shown to lower heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rates, all of which are essential for restful sleep.

Create a clutter-free environment: Having too much clutter in the bedroom can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety, which can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Keeping the bedroom tidy and organized not only promotes a calming sleep environment, but it also reduces the risk of dust and allergens that can negatively impact oral health.

Practice good sleep hygiene:Establish habits that promote healthy sleeping, such as abstaining from caffeine and alcohol before bed, limiting naps, and making sure your bed and bedding are comfortable and supportive.

Prioritizing sleep and improving sleep hygiene are two ways Torontonians can safeguard their oral health and overall well-being. Furthermore, common sleep disorders like sleep apnea or snoring have the potential to negatively impact oral health as well. If you suspect you may have a sleeping disorder, consult with your physician.

Sleep is an integral part of our health, and it plays a particularly significant role in oral health. Even though Torontonians rarely get enough shut-eye, prioritizing sleep should never be neglected. By creating a bedtime routine, creating a sleep sanctuary in your bedroom, and practicing good sleep hygiene regularly, you can safeguard both your oral health and overall well-being.