Most of us get into bed without thinking about how we are positioned. It is such a simple habit that most of us do not think about the health effects of sleeping in one position or another. However, research suggests that our sleeping position does matter.
Sleeping on your back, stomach, or side can make a big difference when it comes to snoring, neck and back pain, sleep apnea, and other health conditions. Our team at Garden City Dental Centre has put together this article to help you discover the best sleeping position for your health.
What is the Most Popular Sleeping Position?
Most people sleep on their back or side, and a small number of people sleep on their stomachs. Sleeping is important to our overall health for many reasons, and the position you sleep in at night may impact your quality of sleep and the severity of other health problems. So, what is the best position for sleeping?
Worst Position: Stomach Sleeping
If you enjoy sleeping on your belly, you aren’t alone, but you are in the smallest percentage of adults. Not many adults are stomach sleepers. While sleeping on your stomach may decrease the sound of snoring, our dentist near you does not recommend stomach sleeping.
With your head on a pillow, stomach sleeping can make it challenging to keep your spine in a neutral position and puts strain on your neck and back. As well, turning your head to one side while sleeping can limit your blood circulation and reduce the size of your airway.
Bad Position: Fetal Position
It is important to know that the fetal position is not recommended because even though your body is on its side, the curvature of your spine can lead to pain and discomfort in your back and neck. This tightly curled position can also limit space for breathing.
Neutral Position: Sleeping on Your Back
Sleeping on your back is the second most popular sleeping position. Sleeping on your back allows your spine to stay in a neutral position and prevents pain in the neck, shoulder, and back.
However, sleep dentistry in Winnipeg shows that this position worsens snoring and sleep apnea. This is due to the back of the throat and tongue relaxing and gravity pulling them into your airways. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you should speak with your dentist about how to best change your sleeping habits.
Best Position: Side Sleeping
The majority of people find this to be the most comfortable sleeping position. Side sleeping has many benefits. It allows the spine to remain elongated and neutral, preventing neck, back, and shoulder pain. Furthermore, side sleeping is great for those who snore or have sleep apnea because their airway is less likely to collapse when the body is relaxed on its side. Side sleeping is recommended for people with neck and back problems, those who have arthritis, and those with acid reflux.
Finding it Hard to Get a Good Night’s Rest?
Everyone deserves a good night’s rest. If you feel the effects of sleep deprivation or are worried that you may have a sleep disorder, contact our dental offices in Winnipeg. Our team at Garden City Dental Centre specializes in sleep dentistry near you and we can help you find the root of your problem and provide a solution. Please contact us to book your appointment today!