Simulation explains physical reason why you have nightmares about your teeth falling out

Losing your teeth is one of the worst things that can happen in life, so it's perhaps no surprise that so many of us have nightmares about it happening.

Although miracle dentists and the prospect of going to Turkey is always an option, it's incredibly important to look after your teeth as best you can, with dentists warning that poor mouth hygiene can sometimes lead to cancer.

While most of us are worried about keeping our teeth pearly white, there are plenty of people out there who apparently spend their evenings having nightmares about them falling out completely.

Personally, my recurring nightmare consists of some volleyball-playing vampires and the occasional one where I'm falling, but I certainly can't remember any about my teeth falling out, even though there's a very scientific reason for why so many people do.

In a recent simulation, the notorious Zack D Films explained exactly why it is so common.

There's a very good explanation for teeth-related dreams (Getty Stock Image)

It's common knowledge that dreams about teeth falling out can signal stress, with the Sleep Foundation explaining that the most common interpretations include:

• Recent loss or grief
• Jealousy
• Increased stress or anxiety
• Lack of control
• Big life changes
• Depression
• Insecurity or shame
• Health-related fears
• Real-life dental issues

Meanwhile, over on YouTube, Zack D Films said in his video: "Your teeth come loose, falling out into your hand one by one. This is one of the most common nightmares people have. Teeth can be a symbol of strength and appearance. Since they are one of the first thing that people notice, losing them feels like losing control.

"So some people think this is your brain's way of processing stress. But in reality, it actually happens when you clench your teeth while sleeping.

"Your brain takes these physical feelings and weaves them into vivid dreams of your teeth falling out, trying to make sense of the pain while you sleep."

While the influencers of today tell you to never stop grinding, it's best to stop in your sleep, otherwise your teeth will pay the price and perhaps cause some of these nightmares.

Considering experts have also warned about the potential health concerns of having regular nightmares, it's probably better if you try and stick to nice dreams, where you're scoring the winning goal at Wembley or perhaps something a little less PG.

So, if the prospect of spending your evenings stressing in your sleep doesn't appeal to you, then maybe try to relax a bit before bed, otherwise you'll be tossing and turning over the idea of your choppers coming a cropper.

Unfortunately, anxiety, stress and depression tend to be worse at night, as Professor Ivo Vlaev explains: "Anxiety tends to worsen at night for several reasons, particularly because of the change in environment and mental focus.

"During the day, the brain is usually occupied with various tasks, distractions, and social interactions, which can suppress anxious thoughts. However, at night, when a person is in a quiet, relaxed environment, the lack of distractions allows anxious thoughts to surface."

So, maybe try a bit of yoga and meditation before bed, if you want to avoid spending an evening having this particularly awful-sounding nightmare.