I’m a dentist – this is EXACTLY what to do if you want to live longer (and the signs your health is in big trouble)
A dentist with more than two decades of experience has sent the internet into a frenzy after revealing the hidden bedtime habits that could be quietly destroying your health.
Dr Mark Burhenne, otherwise known online as ‘The Sleep Dentist’, has already amassed more than 760,000 views on his latest video.
In the viral clip, he breaks down why seemingly harmless night-time behaviours like mouth breathing and snoring are actually major red flags.
The California-based dental expert has spent 20 years helping people sleep and breathe better, and says most of us are completely unaware of how much damage we’re doing overnight.
‘If you wake up with a dry mouth, you’re not just thirsty – you’re mouth breathing all night,’ he warned.
‘That means more cavities, bad breath, and way less oxygen to your brain. Tape your mouth. Train your nose. It will change your life.’
According to experts, mouth breathing during sleep doesn’t just make you wake up groggy, it dries out saliva, which plays a crucial role in protecting against tooth decay and gum disease.
A sleep expert dentist reveals secret bedtime habits that could be harming your health
It can also reduce oxygen flow, which in turn affects energy levels, concentration and heart health.
And if you grind your teeth in your sleep, Dr Burhenne said stress may not be to blame.
‘Grinding your teeth at night isn’t just stress, it’s your airway trying to stay open.
‘Stop wearing down your enamel and start fixing the root cause: your sleep and breathing.’
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is often a sign of restricted airflow, forcing the body to unconsciously push the jaw forward to keep the airway clear – which over time can damage enamel, lead to jaw pain and contribute to sleep disruptions.
Snoring, meanwhile, is one of the most commonly ignored warning signs.
‘It’s your body begging for help, [so] treat it now, or you’re fast-tracking high blood pressure, brain fog, and heart issues,’ he said.
Health authorities agree that regular snoring can be a symptom of sleep apnoea, a potentially serious disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts overnight, increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems, daytime fatigue, and even cognitive decline if left untreated.
According to experts, mouth breathing during sleep doesn’t just make you wake up groggy, it dries out saliva, which plays a crucial role in protecting against tooth decay and gum disease, as well as heart disease, high blood pressure and brain fog
Children aren’t immune either, and Mark said parents should never brush off these symptoms as ‘just a phase’.
‘Kids who snore, mouth breathe, or grind at night… it’s a red flag for poor growth, ADHD-like behaviour, and long-term health issues. Early airway help is everything.’
Research has shown that untreated airway problems in children can affect jaw development, concentration, behaviour and sleep quality, often mimicking symptoms of ADHD and impacting growth.
And for those relying on trendy ‘biohacks’ to improve their sleep, Mark issued a blunt reality check:
‘You can’t biohack your way out of bad sleep.
‘[It] doesn’t matter how many supplements, ice baths, or gadgets you use – if your airway collapses at night, you’re stuck in survival mode.’
In other words, no amount of magnesium powder or smart mattresses will compensate for an untreated airway issue.
For those who experience persistent snoring, dry mouth, teeth grinding or unexplained daytime fatigue, Mark urged them to seek advice from a GP or sleep specialist like himself.
Treatments can range from simple nasal training and mouth taping to dental devices, lifestyle changes or CPAP therapy (uses a machine to provide a continuous flow of air through a mask) for more serious conditions.
With sleep disorders on the rise in Australia and millions unknowingly living with symptoms, Dr Burhenne’s message is clear: ‘STOP ignoring your snoring.’
