Have you ever awoken with a start because you were dreaming of teeth falling out? It’s a weird question, but if it’s happened to you, it can be startling.
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine,
“dreams of teeth falling out or rotting, are one of the most common and universal typical dream themes, yet their source remains unknown and they have rarely been studied empirically.”
Dreams happen during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep, which occurs four to six times during overnight slumber. Sleep studies show that our brains are almost as active during REM cycles as they are when awake.
Dreams are often a reflection of what is happening in your life. What does it mean when your dreams include scenes of teeth falling out? While there are no conclusive answers, a few theories have been floated:
Anxiety
Maybe you are worried about something or feel like you’re losing control over some aspect of your life.
Loss
Perhaps you’ve experienced a loss in your life or are worried about someone in your life who is dealing with an illness.
Neglect
Rotting teeth could symbolize a sense that you are ignoring an important issue or need to take care of a lingering problem.
Aging
Concerns about your own advancing age or that of loved ones may manifest in these types of dreams.
Fears About Seeking Dental Care
How long has it been since you visited your dentist for a cleaning and check-up? You may be worried about the health of your teeth and gum.
Dental Services Near Joliet, IL
Fortunately, you can take control of worries about dental care. Have a conversation with your dentist before sitting down in the exam chair. He or she can develop a plan to help lessen your reluctance with treatment options that may include IV sedation. Because, even if you’re afraid of the dentist, it’s important to keep up with appointments to avoid more significant issues down the road.
If you are looking for a consultation with the best family dentist, be sure to call Shorewood Family Dental Care at 815-725-5991 or book an appointment online.
