A large-scale medical study has revealed a link between sleep disorders and an increased risk of gum and tooth diseases.
The researchers analyzed data from 52 separate studies on sleep and its effects on health, particularly oral and dental health. The results in most studies showed that poor sleep quality, short sleep duration, or sleep disorders—including obstructive sleep apnea—were associated with an increased likelihood of periodontitis and other gum diseases.
The researchers noted that the results were not entirely consistent in terms of risk levels, as risk estimates varied considerably between studies, and many of them were based on observational data, so it is difficult to rule out the influence of other factors such as smoking, stress, and chronic diseases on oral and dental health.
However, scientists believe that the data obtained points to a possible role for sleep in oral health, and it is thought that chronic inflammation may be a common mechanism linking sleep disorders and gum disease.
Health experts warn that sleep disorders can cause serious health and psychological problems for some people. One medical study showed that the risk of heart failure increases in people with obstructive sleep apnea, and another study showed a link between sleep disorders and an increased risk of dementia.
