In 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that an estimated 50 to 70 million adults in the United States suffer from insomnia or other sleep disorders. While most people associate poor sleep with fatigue, mood swings, and low immunity, few realize that insomnia can also negatively impact your dental health.

Understanding Chronic Insomnia

Everyone experiences the occasional sleepless night, but if you struggle to sleep through the night more than three times per week for at least three months, it’s considered chronic insomnia. Over time, this condition doesn’t just affect your energy and concentration — it can also harm your teeth and gums if you’re not careful.

How Insomnia Impacts Oral Health

Insomnia can contribute to several dental issues, often without you realizing it. Here are a few key ways sleep disorders and oral health are connected:

• Nocturnal Eating Syndrome: A sleep disorder where people wake up during the night to eat, often without brushing their teeth before going back to bed. This can lead to cavities, plaque buildup, and gum disease.
• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Many people grind or clench their teeth during sleep, sometimes so intensely that it wakes them or their partner. Bruxism can crack fillings, wear down enamel, and strain the jaw joint.
• Dry Mouth: Poor sleep or mouth breathing during sleep can reduce saliva flow, allowing bacteria to thrive and increase your risk of decay or bad breath.

Protecting Your Teeth While Managing Insomnia

While insomnia can be challenging, there are simple steps you can take to protect your oral health:

• Brush and floss after any late-night snacks or meals.
• Keep water by your bed to stay hydrated and avoid sugary drinks when awake at night.
• Talk to your dentist about a night guard if you grind your teeth.
• Maintain a consistent bedtime routine and limit screen time before bed to promote better sleep.

Insomnia doesn’t just affect your energy — it can impact your smile too. Prioritizing both sleep and oral hygiene will help you maintain a healthier, happier you.

If you have questions about how sleep affects your dental health, or if you’re dealing with nighttime teeth grinding, call us today at (510) 848-0114 to schedule an appointment.