Getting a Better Night’s Sleep During the Summer

It’s estimated that about a third of adults do not get enough uninterrupted slumber (especially if they’re struggling with a sleep disorder like sleep apnea). If you tend to have trouble getting enough sleep, then summer can potentially make the problem even worse. Many individuals find it difficult to get a sufficient amount of quality rest during the hottest months of the year. Fortunately, your dentist is here with 4 tips that can help you get a better night’s sleep.

1. Cool Down Your Bedroom

When your body is getting ready to fall asleep, it cools itself down. This is harder to do if your bedroom is too warm due to the summer heat. To promote better slumber, try setting your thermostat somewhere between 65 and 68 degrees. If you need additional help staying cool, you can place a fan near your bed or get a cooling mattress topper. Take whatever steps you need to in order to maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature in your bedroom.

2. Start Limiting Your Exposure to Light Earlier in the Evening

To make sure that your body is producing enough melatonin (a hormone that plays an important role in regulating the sleep cycle), you should try to limit the amount of sunlight that you’re exposed to in the hours before bedtime. The sun tends to stay out longer during the summer, so make a point of closing the blinds or curtains in the evening. It can also be helpful to dim the lights in your home.

3. Stick to Your Sleep Routine

Due to all the social events that tend to take place during the summer, you may find that you’re staying out later than normal. This can potentially throw off your sleep schedule. In order to improve the quality of your slumber, it’s important to try to go to bed at the same time every evening. Doing so will help keep your body’s internal clock on track.

4. If You Have Sleep Apnea, Seek Treatment From a Professional

No matter the season, sleep apnea can be a serious obstacle between you and a good night’s sleep. The best way to deal with sleep apnea is to have it professionally diagnosed and treated. Sometimes an oral appliance by itself is enough to keep the sleep disorder under control. Other times, it may be beneficial to combine an oral appliance with a CPAP machine. Talk to a sleep apnea dentist to see what treatment options are available.

No matter what time of year it is, you deserve a good night’s sleep. Keep the above tips in mind so that you can stay as well-rested as possible for the remainder of the summer.

About the Practice

At GoTo Sleep Center – Mesa, we provide our patients with non-surgical forms of sleep apnea treatment so that they can overcome their sleep-disordered breathing. We offer various types of oral appliances that can be customized according to the individual’s needs. To schedule a consultation with us, visit our website or call (623) 239-0007.