The Night Before & Sleep
‘Twas the night before Christmas and not a creature was stirring, except maybe you. You’re certainly not alone if you’re wide awake before an exciting day, but it’s worth noting that your pearly whites can be affected by missing sleep. Understanding the surprising ways that sleep and oral health go hand in hand can ultimately help you make a few important corrections for a healthier smile this holiday season.
Late Night Cookies
Is Santa in the kitchen again seeking out cookies and eggnog? If you’re not getting any shut-eye, you’re more prone to reaching out for a midnight snack. Midnight snacks may seem harmless, but more often than not, we’re heading right for sugary treats that are less than ideal for our teeth. Not only are our go-to snacks loaded with sugar, but we tend to eat midnight snacks after we brushed. Our teeth likely won’t see the toothbrush until the next morning. Do your best to stick to your routine in the evening hours. This way, you’ll also prevent midnight snacking from becoming a nightly habit.
All I Want for Christmas is Healthy Gums and Teeth
We know quality sleep is essential to maintaining good overall health, but this also applies to your teeth. Studies have shown that gum disease is more likely to develop in individuals who are sleep deprived. If you think about it, sleep allows you to keep your immune system strong. Without adequate sleep, you have an increased risk of falling ill and becoming more susceptible to disease. Make sleep a top priority in your life for your body, mind, and teeth!
When the Grinch Sneaks Up on You
Lack of sleep brings moodiness, stress, and other negative emotions to town. These feelings that are void of cheer and full of stress can cause grinding in our sleep. Grinding is problematic in more ways than one. You could experience discomfort, worn teeth, headaches, and even tooth loss. It’s important to work on turning those feelings around and sending them out the door for years to come. Take a peek at these tips from our previous blog that takes a close look at grinding as a result of stress. Keep in mind that grinding can be caused by other conditions such as an abnormal bite or even sleep disorders like sleep apnea. We’re here for you all season long if you suspect nightly grinding.
Christmas Morning and All Its Good Cheer
The thrill of a morning filled with family, goodies, and gifts makes it challenging for the Sandman to make his rounds. Santa Claus can really give the Sandman a run for his money! If that’s the case, give yourself a bit of a break. Just be sure to jump back into your regular routine the very next day, and your teeth will thank you.
However, if you’re someone who needs to improve your sleep hygiene for the long run, be sure to make that change for your body, mind, and oral health. Stick to a regular sleep schedule every day, turn off electronics an hour before bed, and browse these other suggestions for getting optimal sleep. A good night’s rest makes the days so much better, including your favorite holidays. Look out, Christmas morning! Here we come!
Getting good sleep is only one part of having healthier teeth. Be sure to brush, floss, and reach out to us today. We’d love to see you during the holiday season.
Connecting with others in the community on social media has a way of making us feel extremely jolly. Come check us out on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. See you there, and happy holidays!
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