Sleep and Dementia

In this episode, Anne Rice discusses the impact of poor quality sleep on the brain and the importance of slow wave sleep for brain health. She explains the concept of fragmented sleep and its effects on the brain, as well as the various causes of fragmented sleep. Anne also highlights the link between fragmented sleep and cognitive decline, emphasizing the importance of getting a sleep test and seeking help. She envisions a future dental office that integrates medical and dental care for comprehensive health. Finally, Anne provides tips for improving sleep and brain health and emphasizes the importance of sleep testing and knowing your numbers.

Takeaways

• Poor quality sleep can have a significant impact on the brain, affecting oxygen and blood flow, white matter, and the removal of amyloid plaques and tau tangles.
• Fragmented sleep, characterized by interruptions in sleep cycles, can lead to cognitive decline and is often a symptom of underlying health issues such as sleep apnea or menopause.
• It is important to get a sleep test to identify and address any sleep disorders or issues that may be affecting brain health.
• The dental office of the future should integrate medical and dental care, recognizing the interconnectedness of oral health and overall health.
• To improve sleep and brain health, create a sleep-friendly environment, regulate sugar intake, exercise regularly, and consider techniques such as nasal breathing and cognitive behavioral therapy.
• Check out what Anne has to offer: www.anneorice.com or email: anneorice@gmail.com
• Anne has published her manuscript Alzheimer's Disease and Oral-Systemic Health for Frontiers, she has consulted for Weill Cornell Alzheimer's Prevention Center, The Atlantic Center for Brain Health and The Artria Institute.  She was included in an international Consortium of diverse network of brain researchers, clinicians and institutions who support Alzheimer's prevention. She is available to speak at medical and dental events to support healthy  mouths and healthy brains. 

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Speaker Bio

01:51
The Impact of Poor Quality Sleep on the Brain

04:13
The Importance of Slow Wave Sleep for Brain Health

05:27
Understanding Fragmented Sleep and its Effects on the Brain

07:17
Causes of Fragmented Sleep

08:33
Fragmented Sleep as a Red Flag for Cognitive Decline

10:47
Getting a Sleep Test and Seeking Help

13:28
The Dental Office of the Future

16:10
Preventive Neurology and Integrative Healthcare

17:05
Tips for Improving Sleep and Brain Health

21:17
Importance of Sleep Testing and Knowing Your Numbers

22:22
Conclusion and Contact Information