Category: About Sleep

Dr. Stewart and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine

I’m honored to be one of the very few dentists who are part of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. This organization is involved in health policy legislation that affects sleep disorder patients and treatments. AASM is dedicated to making certain that sleep medicine receives the attention it deserves — for the benefit of people who suffer from sleep apnea and other sleep disorders.

Better Sleep = Better Life!

If you don’t sleep well, quality of life suffers. That’s just a fact. Studies show a startling link between overall health, state of mind, and quality of sleep. Health Ambition published an article this week that shares some of the negative results poor sleep. A sleep disorder or not getting enough sleep increases the risk… Read more »

Teens with Troubled Sleep

Are you concerned about your teen’s sleep habits? Teenagers should get about 9 hours of sleep a night. Drinking energy colas, sodas, and coffee—and even excessive cell phone use—can negatively affect sleep in teens. Other interesting sleep facts about kids and teens: Furthermore, teens who are “morning people” tend to get better grades. Teens who… Read more »

Fun Facts about Sleep

Some people nap with their eyes open The longest a person has stayed awake is 18 days, 21 hours, 40 minutes A new baby in the house causes parents to lose 400-750 hours of sleep in one year Elephants lie down for REM sleep, but spend the other four cycles standing up Some animals have… Read more »

How Much Sleep is Enough?

You’ve heard about getting a solid eight hours, meaning a complete eight hours of sleep at night. The truth is, 6.5 to 7.5 hours of sleep is ideal. Studies show that people who get more or less statistically do not live as long as those who regularly sleep 6.5 to 7.5 hours a night. You… Read more »

How to Fall Back Asleep During the Night

If you awake at night and have trouble getting back to sleep, the first thing you need to do is stay in bed for at least 15 minutes, keep your eyes closed, and try to clear your mind. This will tell your body that you are still in relaxation mode. After at least 15 minutes… Read more »

Tips to Help You Fall Asleep at Bedtime

Whether or not you are diagnosed with a sleep disorder like sleep apnea, you can improve your ability to fall asleep with a few simple lifestyle changes. Many reputable sources, including the Mayo Clinic, recommend similar tips: Do not drink caffeine in the evening (coffee, sodas, tea, chocolate, etc.) Avoid nicotine and alcohol before bed… Read more »

Sleep Disorders have Significant Effect on Quality of Life

Sleep is not when the body goes dormant. On the contrary, sleep is an important part of life in which the brain is very active. Research shows that sleep may be when neurons repair themselves, and we know that certain growth hormones are released during sleep. The nervous and immune systems seem to be significantly… Read more »