Sleep is highly essential since it allows the body to calibrate itself. If a person is resting, the internal processes slow down to let the body spend the time in repairing the damaged cells and recovering the energy to start a brand new day. But did you know that sleep can affect the teeth? And that by improving one’s dental habits, they are more likely to get good sleep? How are these possible? Continue reading below!
Sleep…
Fortifies the Enamel
Enamel is the translucent outer layer of each tooth that protects its inner portions from being damaged. Although the enamel is considered as the hardest substance in the human body, it can still chip, crack, and wear down. By sleeping, a person allows the body to retain the damaged enamel to a certain extent. Sleep triggers the distribution of calcium and phosphate throughout the body for repair, including the teeth.
Strengthens the immune system
Sleeping is crucial in achieving a healthy immune system. As everyone may already know, the immune system is in charge of fighting off infections while learning how to protect itself from future threats and viruses the patient may make contact. The same applies to oral health; however, the immune system cannot fight everything by itself.
There are numerous bacteria present in the mouth. Some are good, and there are those that feed off the plaque clinging on the teeth, causing the enamel to wear down. So, to help the immune system in keeping harmful bacteria at bay, patients are advised to brush and floss before bed.
The most effective practice patients should observe is by brushing at least an hour or so before going to bed. Doing so, lets the body reproduce saliva. They are also advised to limit themselves to water after brushing. Saliva is essential since it is the first defense against bacteria in the mouth.
However, some patients have trouble getting enough sleep at night due to a certain condition. Bruxism or most commonly known as teeth grinding and jaw clenching is a disorder that takes place unconsciously. Aside from interrupting a person’s sleep, bruxism can cause the teeth to wear down prematurely. If the teeth are left unattended, the person becomes at risk of cavities and other dental complications. And since they have a poor quality of sleep, their immune system becomes compromised, and the process of fortifying the teeth does not take place. At Parkway Dental, we offer an oral appliance – Night Guards to help in preventing the further deterioration of the teeth due to bruxism and for them to get some sleep without interruptions.
Get added protection to your teeth by availing of Night Guards in Hamden, CT! Book your appointment with Parkway Dental to get started with the customization of the appliance. Our dental office is located at 1869 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden, CT 06514.