Better Breathing, Better Sleep, Better You!

Better Breathing, Better Sleep, Better You!

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Welcome back to More Than Teeth Podcast with Dr. Michael Bennett. In this episode, Dr. Bennett raises a profound question: If there were a way to extend your life and enhance the quality of life for your children, grandchildren, and future generations—would you want to know how? The answer, he suggests, begins with understanding when and how our bodies heal.

Most people correctly guess that the body performs its deepest healing not during our waking hours, but while we sleep. Yet, few realize just how crucial uninterrupted, high-quality sleep is to this process. In this episode, Dr. Bennett explores how improving the way we breathe—especially through the nose—can profoundly influence sleep quality, immune resilience, and lifelong health outcomes.

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Why Nasal Breathing Matters

Our primary filter for environmental pollutants, allergens, and pathogens is the nose. It is not designed merely for scent, but for optimizing oxygen intake. Nasal breathing:

• Filters dust, bacteria, and viruses
  
  
• Humidifies incoming air through dense vascular tissue
  
  
• Regulates airflow via structures called turbinates, enhancing oxygen absorption
  
  
• Stimulates the production of nitric oxide, a molecule critical for blood vessel and alveolar dilation—facilitating optimal oxygen delivery to the body
  
  

Conversely, mouth breathing bypasses all these critical functions. Studies indicate that it can reduce oxygenation by up to 18%, impairing organ function and increasing disease susceptibility. As Dr. Bennett emphasizes, children who frequently breathe through their mouths should be encouraged to play simple "keep your lips closed" games to retrain proper breathing habits. The earlier these habits are formed, the better the development of facial bones and airways.

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Form Follows Function: Encouraging Airway Growth

One of Dr. Bennett’s central messages is that form follows function—structures in the body grow based on their use. Encouraging nasal breathing not only improves immediate respiratory function but also promotes the development of larger, healthier airways. Conversely, underuse leads to restricted growth and chronic health issues.

This principle is particularly evident in upper jaw development. The bone that houses the upper teeth also forms the base of the nasal passages. When the jaw is small—indicated by crowded teeth or the need for braces—nasal airflow is usually compromised. This explains why many people benefit from nasal valve support, like external nasal strips or internal nasal dilators. Products such as MUTE nasal dilators offer customizable support and are backed by studies showing enhanced athletic performance due to improved breathing.

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Reducing Inflammation and Improving Nasal Hygiene

Beyond structure, inflammation plays a critical role in restricting nasal airflow. Diet is a common culprit, especially highly processed foods that trigger immune responses and mucus production. Simple dietary shifts—such as replacing packaged snacks with fresh vegetables—can significantly reduce nasal congestion.

Another practical tip is to moisturize the nasal passages, particularly in dry or air-conditioned environments. Dry tissues are more susceptible to microbial infections. Dr. Bennett recommends using Clear Nasal Spray, a saline-xylitol solution that not only hydrates but also inhibits bacterial growth. This combination reduces swelling, supports immune defenses, and enhances breathing comfort.

Additionally, Dr. Bennett suggests bathing or showering before bed to wash off airborne allergens from skin and hair. This prevents nighttime exposure to particles that may otherwise trigger nasal inflammation and disrupt sleep.

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Identifying the Signs of Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Many people suffer from undiagnosed sleep-disordered breathing, often revealed through subtle signs like:

• Teeth grinding or clenching
  
  
• Jaw pain or headaches upon waking
  
  
• Tongue indentations from pressure against teeth
  
  
• Fatigue and low energy despite long sleep hours
  
  

These are reflexive responses to obstructed airflow, especially nasal obstruction, during sleep. Dr. Bennett shares a personal case where a family member experienced jaw pain due to undiagnosed nighttime clenching. Simple breathing improvements immediately relieved her symptoms.

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The Missing Metric: Oxygen Saturation During Sleep

One of the most overlooked health metrics is oxygen saturation during sleep. While doctors routinely measure blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol, few people ever have their nighttime oxygen levels evaluated. This is a critical oversight because poor oxygenation—especially during REM and deep sleep—prevents the body from entering its reparative states, ultimately increasing the risk of chronic illness.

Dr. Bennett encourages those experiencing fatigue, chronic illness, or persistent dental issues to undergo a sleep test. Identifying and addressing disruptions in nighttime breathing can be a game-changer for both physical and emotional well-being.

As a dentist, Dr. Bennett specializes in using oral appliances that facilitate airway development. These are often custom-fitted devices that resemble retainers, equipped with gentle expansion mechanisms to encourage bone growth in the upper and lower jaws. As these structures expand, the nasal and oral airways improve—allowing for quieter, deeper, and more restorative sleep.

He works in tandem with medical professionals who address urgent or complex sleep disorders while managing the structural and functional side through oral interventions. This integrated approach ensures stability and long-term improvement in sleep quality and overall health.

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Restoring Health Through the Power of Sleep

In closing, Dr. Bennett reiterates that unleashing the healing power of sleep can dramatically reduce or even reverse many chronic conditions—ranging from fatigue and fibromyalgia to chronic dental disease. For families seeking to improve their long-term health, the first step is to optimize nighttime breathing.

With practical tools, emerging technology, and better awareness, there is real hope. Whether you're struggling with sleep apnea, unexplained fatigue, or simply want to give your children a better start, improving sleep through nasal health is one of the most powerful decisions you can make.

Stay tuned for future episodes where Dr. Bennett continues to explore the intersection of sleep, breathing, and holistic health.

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