Why Sleep Deprivation Is Dangerous for Your Dental Health 

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that can leave you feeling fatigued and irritable, and can even cause serious long-term health complications in some cases. Additionally, sleep deprivation can also impact dental health. Here’s what you should know about why sleep deprivation is negative for your dental health. If you have more questions, reach out to our team at Distinctive Dental Solutions online or by phone.

Sleep Deprivation Can Increase Inflammation

The first thing to know about sleep deprivation is that when you aren’t getting enough sleep on a routine basis, the body will start to produce more inflammatory hormones. While inflammation is a tool that the body uses to heal itself when injured, too much inflammation can lead to numerous complications and long-term effects. For example, chronic inflammation may increase your risk of stroke and heart disease. 

One way that inflammation can negatively impact your dental health is by creating inflammation in your gums that leads to gingivitis. 

Sleep Deprivation May Increase Your Risk of Developing Periodontitis

The primary way that sleep deprivation can increase your risk of developing periodontitis is likely tied to the levels of increased inflammation in the gums, which will first lead to gingivitis before periodontitis. While doctors aren’t sure of the exact cause for the connection, studies do show that those who don’t get enough sleep every night have an increased risk of developing the gum disease. 

Solutions to Sleep Apnea Exist

While sleep apnea is certainly something to be concerned about, as it can impact your day-to-day quality of life and your long-term health, the good news is that solutions to sleep apnea exist. In some cases, making lifestyle changes may be enough to prevent the onset of, or treat, the condition. Things like maintaining a healthy weight, diet and exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcohol can all help. There are also airway pressure devices, CPAP machines, and oral appliances that can help. 

Learn More By Contacting Distinctive Dental Solutions Today

At Distinctive Dental Solutions, we recognize how serious of a disease sleep apnea is, and that it can lead to other conditions, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. If you have questions about sleep apnea, gingivitis, or periodontitis or the treatment options that exist, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. Our team provides a wide array of dental services. To learn more about sleep apnea and the related dental health risks, please call us directly or send us a message at your convenience. We are here for you.