How Can Proper Dental Maintenance Help You Sleep?

Do you wake up in the morning feeling like you didn't sleep at all? Do you feel stiff and achy in certain parts of your body? Chances are, you're not sick and it's more than likely something to do with either your jaw or your sleeping posture. You should get some dental maintenance done to be sure, and here's why. Consider consulting a dentist in Richmond, TX to address these issues and ensure your oral health is not contributing to your discomfort.

Bruxism

According to the National Library of Medicine, bruxism is defined as the repetitive jaw muscle activity characterized by the clenching or grinding of teeth. Frequent SB occurs in about 13% of adults. If you wake up with a sore jaw, it could be because you're grinding your teeth while you sleep. It could be from nerves or another issue. As a result, your jaw muscles will be tired, and you'll also be tired. If it's not treated, you could wind up cracking your teeth because of the constant grinding.

The best dental solution for this is for the dentist to create a mouthpiece for you that prevents your upper and lower teeth from touching while you sleep. As a result, you won't be grinding, and you'll get a much better night's sleep. While you have the mouthpiece, you can also assess what's going on in your life to see what's making you so stressed. Once you do that, you can make any necessary changes.

Gum Disease

When you don't brush and floss enough, plaque can build up on your teeth and gums. First, it'll be gingivitis, which is a reversible form of gum disease that shows itself with red, sore gums that bleed. That plaque will turn into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist. This can make things uncomfortable in your mouth and can interfere with sleep. Good oral habits can keep that from happening.

Dry Mouth

Usually, your mouth produces a lot of saliva. Some conditions and medications may lead to dry mouth, though. If you've woken up in the middle of the night and felt thirsty, you know how uncomfortable dry mouth is. You also run the risk of more cavities and gum disease, which will also make things uncomfortable. Talk to your dentist.

There are other conditions, like TMJ and sleep apnea, that can cause sleep issues. This can be dangerous. Your dentist can help you and create appliances that make things easier to sleep. That's why you need regular dental visits -- you'll be glad you did later.

Do you need dental service? We do everything from cosmetic dentistry to general dentistry in Richmond, TX, and we can even help treat things like bruxism. Contact us at Pampered Dental today to make an appointment.