Why We Ask Every Patient About Their Sleep
When patients visit a dental office, they expect questions about brushing, flossing, and dental concerns.
Many are surprised when we ask about sleep.
The reason is simple:
Sleep affects nearly every system in the body.
Sleep and Oral Health Are Closely Connected
Dentists often see signs that may indicate sleep-related breathing issues long before patients realize there may be a problem.
These signs can include:
- Teeth grinding
- Worn teeth
- Dry mouth
- Mouth breathing
- Tongue scalloping
- Narrow dental arches
Why Sleep Matters
Poor sleep has been associated with:
- Fatigue
- Reduced concentration
- Increased inflammation
- Slower healing
- Reduced immune function
What We Look For
Our evaluations may include:
- Sleep questionnaires
- Breathing assessments
- Oral examination
- Airway screening
- CBCT imaging when appropriate
The Goal
We are not trying to replace your physician.
We are trying to identify factors that may contribute to poor sleep and guide patients toward appropriate solutions.
Better sleep often leads to better health, and better health starts with asking better questions.
