Every November, National Sleep Comfort Week is honored. Now is an excellent time to assess your sleeping habits and plan for the Christmas season. Some people have trouble sleeping no matter how well they sleep. If you have trouble falling asleep even if you practise near-perfect sleep hygiene, you almost surely have a sleep problem.

The Sleep Apnea-Teeth Grinding Connection

Every year, around 40 million people suffer from persistent sleep disorders. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a fairly common sleep disorder that affects more than 31% of the population. Many people are unaware that sleep apnea frequently causes tooth grinding. Sleep apnea develops when your nasal tubes and airways get clogged, causing your throat muscles to relax. It may make it difficult for you to breathe at night.

What Are The Common Symptoms Of Adult Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea, on the other hand, is more difficult to manage. The following are the most common signs of sleep apnea:

  • Snoring loudly
  • The feeling of being tired even after a good night's sleep is known as hypersomnia.
  • Having trouble falling asleep (insomnia)
  • You can wake up with a sore throat, a dry throat, or a headache.
  • Gasping and lack of breath may occasionally startle you awake.
  • You should stand up more often to use the restroom.
  • Attention, concentration, and memory problems
  • Excessive irritability/swings in mood

Sleep Apnea, Teeth Grinding, And Other Common Childhood Symptoms

Sleep apnea and bruxism are two more symptoms that children may experience. Many of these symptoms, such as poor academic performance and difficulty learning, are quite similar to ADHD symptoms. Another cautionary sign is:

  • Snoring
  • Drowsiness throughout the day
  • Both awake and asleep, I have heavy mouth breathing.
  • Breathing pauses that occur on a regular basis while sleeping
  • Bedwetting

Sleep Apnea And Teeth Grinding Risques

Sleep-disordered breathing can cause type 2 diabetes (or acid reflux), poor immune function, low immunity, poor mental health, memory loss, and an increased risk of strokes or heart failure.

Nighttime teeth grinding can wear away enamel, crowns, and fillings, resulting in a sore jaw, migraines, and sensitive teeth.

There Are Several Treatments Available For Sleep Apnea.

How to Treat Sleep Apnea and Bruxism for Better Sleep Quality

  • Many of these symptoms can be alleviated with simple lifestyle modifications. Here are a few examples:
  • Manage your stress levels (bruxism is especially a response to anxiety and stress).
  • Lose weight and keep it off. Obesity makes nasal passage restriction and occlusion more likely.
  • Yoga improves your breathing and increases oxygen flow.
  • Reduce your alcohol consumption. The relaxation of throat muscles caused by alcohol causes snoring. It also irritates your airways, making breathing harder.
  • A humidifier should be used if you live in a dry climate.
  • Enhance your sleeping patterns.
  1. The bedroom should only be used for sleeping.
  2. A good night's sleep is crucial. Every day, even on weekends, you must sleep and wake up at the same hour.
  3. After lunchtime, caffeine should be avoided.
  4. Avoid blue light from screens for at least an hour before going to bed.
  5. You should avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 2 to 3 hours before going to bed.
  6. Daily exercise is advised.

These methods can help you sleep better. It is also a good idea to speak with your Dentist Hornsby (or pediatric dentistry for your children) about your symptoms and the best remedy for you.