Sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep deprivation, and conditions like Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS) have wide-ranging effects on overall health, including oral health. Poor sleep quality affects physiological functions, hormonal regulation, the immune system, and daily habits related to oral hygiene. Ultimately, these conditions can increase the risk of oral health problems such as xerostomia, dental caries, gingivitis, and bruxism.
One important finding regarding the relationship between sleep patterns and human health is presented in a study entitled “The Relationship between Sleep Hygiene and Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS) among PSIK FK-KMK UGM Students during the Blended Learning Period.” The study was conducted by UGM student Syusputri Ilham Nurjannah under the supervision of Suis Galischa Wati, S.Kep., Ns., M.Kep., and Syahirul Alim, S.Kp., M.Sc., Ph.D. The findings confirm that poor sleep habits increase the likelihood of EDS, which in turn affects daily functioning and overall well-being. The same principle can be applied to oral health: when sleep quality declines, individuals are more likely to neglect oral hygiene, while biological disturbances may affect saliva production, local immune responses, and dietary patterns.
In individuals with sleep disorders, saliva production often decreases, particularly in patients with sleep apnea or those who breathe through the mouth during sleep. Saliva plays a crucial role in acid neutralization and tooth remineralization; therefore, reduced saliva flow makes enamel more susceptible to erosion and caries. In addition, chronic fatigue often leads individuals to choose high-sugar foods as a form of “quick energy,” further increasing the risk of tooth decay. Sleep disorders are also closely associated with parafunctional habits such as bruxism, or teeth grinding during sleep, which can cause tooth abrasion, sensitivity, and facial muscle pain.
From a behavioral perspective, individuals with EDS often feel too exhausted to maintain proper oral hygiene routines, including brushing their teeth before bedtime. Emotional conditions such as stress and anxiety associated with sleep disorders may also exacerbate periodontal inflammation. Therefore, oral health evaluations should include an assessment of sleep patterns as an important component.
Maintaining oral health in individuals with sleep disorders requires a multidisciplinary approach. Dentists need to identify signs of sleep disorders through patient complaints, erosion patterns, or symptoms of bruxism. Education on sleep hygiene, diet, hydration, and stress management can help improve oral conditions. Referrals to other healthcare professionals, such as sleep specialists or psychologists, may be necessary to address underlying issues. This holistic approach is more effective in reducing the risk of caries, periodontal disease, and other oral health problems influenced by sleep disorders.
References
SYUSPUTRI ILHAM NURJANNAH, Suis Galischa Wati, S.Kep., Ns., M.Kep.; Syahirul Alim, S.Kp. M.Sc, Ph.D., Hubungan Sleep Hygiene dengan Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS) pada Mahasiswa PSIK FK-KMK UGM saat Masa Pembelajaran Bauran, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/240026
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
