This Unexpected Body Part Benefits From More Sleep, Research Reveals

When it comes to microbiome health, we tend to zero in on the gut. But there’s another microbial ecosystem that’s equally important, and it’s right under your nose (literally). 

Your mouth is home to hundreds of microbial species, and the diversity of this oral microbiome plays a surprisingly important role in everything from dental health to systemic inflammation.

And recent research offers an intriguing twist: Your sleep habits may have a direct impact on the diversity of bacteria in your mouth. Specifically, the research found that those who sleep longer tend to have healthier, more diverse oral microbiomes.

That’s right, catching a few extra Zzz’s might be one of the simplest ways to support your microbial balance, starting with your mouth.

What the study found (& why it matters)

In this study, researchers looked at over 1,300 young adults and examined how their sleep habits were linked to the health of their oral microbiome. Using national health data, they measured how long each person slept during the week and grouped them into categories: very short, short, healthy, and long sleepers.

Then, they analyzed each person’s oral bacteria, specifically how diverse and balanced it was, which is a strong marker of overall health.

The standout finding? The small group of participants who got the most sleep (9–10+ hours) had the most diverse, robust oral microbiomes. In simple terms, the more sleep people got, the healthier their mouth bacteria appeared to be.

Why sleep could be key to oral microbial health

While brushing and flossing are still key, this research adds something new to the conversation: quality sleep might help keep your mouth’s ecosystem in balance.

Why? Because sleep plays a big role in regulating your immune system, reducing inflammation, and controlling hormone levels—all of which impact the environment inside your mouth. It also affects saliva production, which helps wash away harmful bacteria. 

When you’re sleep-deprived, this protective system starts to break down, possibly making you more prone to cavities, gum issues, and oral infections.

Can you really sleep your way to a better microbiome?

This research adds to a compelling case for prioritizing high-quality, consistent sleep, especially during young adult years.

Here are a few research-backed tips to support sleep and, potentially, your oral microbiome:

The takeaway

This new research highlights a surprising yet exciting connection between longer sleep and a more diverse oral microbiome. While we usually focus on brushing and flossing to keep our mouths healthy, sleep may be just as crucial, offering a low-cost, accessible way to support microbial balance.