What does sleep have to do with your smile? Having enough sleep boosts your immunity, keeps you stress free, and helps you think more clearly, which can prevent you from clenching your jaw or painfully grinding your teeth. Below, we list natural ways to get a better night’s sleep without needing a prescription.
Draw a Warm Bath
A warm bath is not only a great way to relax your muscles and prepare you for a sound sleep, but it can also help you burn calories! Studies have shown that a hot bath can burn as many calories as a 30-minute walk.
Drink a Warm Beverage
Hot milk with honey or caffeine-free tea like peppermint or chamomile can lull you to sleep because of their abilities to promote the production of melatonin and serotonin in your brain.
Turn Off Electronics
Watching TV or using your smartphone before bed keep your brain active and alert, which makes it much harder to fall asleep. Try shutting off your electronics at least a half hour before bed for a better night’s sleep, and listen to music, read a book, or write in a journal instead.
Develop a Sleep Routine
Having a consistent sleeping routine is key in getting better sleep. Aim to go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning. It may seem tough not to be able to sleep in on weekends anymore, but with a consistent sleeping routine, you will feel well rested without having to do so!
Meditate
Simple breathing exercises can help clear your mind of they day’s stresses and make it easier to fall asleep. It’s hard to think of nothing when your mind has been pulled in different directions all day, but just a few minutes of meditation each day has been known to work wonders on your health.
Exercise
Whether it’s a brisk run or an intense fitness class, daily exercise is a great way to tire your muscles and work off pent up stress.
Take Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates your sleep. It’s available over the counter, but make sure to check with your doctor before starting any new supplements.
Good sleep can help prevent painful (and damaging) teeth clenching and grinding. At South Texas Smiles, we know how important maintaining your overall health is for your oral health, and offer a variety of services to meet the needs of you and your family. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
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