Did you know that the position you sleep in can have an impact on your snoring habits and teeth grinding? It’s true! In fact, research has shown that people who sleep on their backs are more likely to snore than those who sleep on their sides. And people who grind their teeth at night are more likely to do so when they sleep on their backs.
If you’re someone who suffers from snoring or teeth grinding, it might be worth trying out a different sleeping position. You could try sleeping on your side, or even on your stomach. If that doesn’t work, there are other things you can do to reduce your snoring and teeth grinding, such as using a mouth guard or avoiding alcohol before bed.
The Connection Between Sleeping Positions and Snoring
Many people don't realize the connection between sleeping positions and snoring. Snoring can be caused by a variety of things, such as nasal congestion, a deviated septum, or enlarged tonsils. But one of the most common causes of snoring is sleeping on your back. When you sleep on your back, your tongue and soft palate can fall backwards into your throat. This can cause the tissues in your throat to vibrate, which is what creates the sound of snoring.
Reduce Snoring with your Sleep Position
Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent snoring without having to make any major changes to your lifestyle. One way is to simply sleep on your side instead of on your back. This will keep your tongue from falling back into your throat and obstructing your airway.
Sleeping on your side is the best position for reducing snoring, but it's not always easy to stay in that position all night. If you find yourself waking up on your back, don't worry; just try to adjust your position and go back to sleep.
You can also invest in a body pillow that you can hug while you sleep; this will help keep you from rolling onto your back. Or you can try sewing a tennis ball into the back of your pajamas - this will make it uncomfortable to sleep on your back and will encourage you to stay on your side. With a little practice, you should be able to make sleeping on your side a comfortable and habitual position.
Sleeping Positions and Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition where you grind your teeth at night, which can lead to many dental problems. This can be caused by a number of things, including stress, tension, or an incorrect bite. If you suffer from bruxism, sleeping on your back may make it worse. Sleeping on your back puts your jaw in a position that is more likely to lead to teeth grinding.
Try sleeping on your side or stomach instead to reduce the risk of grinding your teeth at night. Sleeping on your side is often recommended as a way to prevent bruxism, as it keeps your jaw in a more relaxed position. If you are a side sleeper, you may want to consider using a pillow to keep your head elevated, as this can also help reduce teeth grinding.
Reduce Snoring with a Mouthguard
If you're looking for a way to reduce snoring, a mouthguard may be the answer. Many people find that sleeping on their side prevents snoring, and using a mouthguard can help keep your jaw in that position. If you tend to sleep on your back, a mouthguard can also help keep your airway open and reduce snoring.
Bruxism is another condition that can be helped with a mouthguard. A night mouth guard prevents your teeth from grinding together at night. If you struggle with bruxism, it is best to consult your dentist about whether a night mouth guard is right for you.
Conclusion
Sleeping position can have a big impact on both snoring and bruxism. If you're struggling with either of these conditions, try sleeping on your side or stomach instead of your back. You may also find relief by using a night mouth guard. Consult your dentist to know it is a perfect solution for you.