Are you stressing as you try to complete your multitude of tasks to make this the best holiday ever? If so, you may not be thinking about how it’s affecting your teeth. The festive season is often associated with joy, but sometimes all you seem to get is a shot of cortisol. However, it’s important to manage your holiday stress for the sake of your dental health.
If you want to learn the unexpected impact of holiday stress on your teeth and gums, continue reading.
What is Holiday Stress Doing to My Dental Health?
Cortisol, the stress hormone, can affect multiple aspects of your body. Here’s what stress can cause in your dental health:
- Clenching and Grinding: Elevated stress levels may lead to unconscious habits like teeth clenching or grinding, known as bruxism. This can contribute to tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches.
- Skipping Oral Hygiene: Stress often disrupts routine habits, and oral hygiene is no exception. Neglecting regular brushing and flossing can pave the way for dental issues.
- Indulging in Stress-Easing: Some patients may resort to coping mechanisms such as nail-biting or chewing on pens, inadvertently affecting dental health.
- Gum Inflammation: Stress weakens the immune system, making gums more susceptible to inflammation and periodontal problems.
How Can I Deal with Stress to Help My Dental Health?
If you’re worried that stress might get the better of your teeth this year, here are a few things you can do to ease your issues:
- Stress Management Techniques: Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your holiday routine, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or walks to promote overall well-being.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene Routines: Continue regular brushing, flossing, and anti-bacterial mouthwash use to counteract the impact of stress on your dental health.
- Custom Nightguards for Bruxism: If stress-induced bruxism is a concern, consult with your dentist about using nightguards to protect your teeth while sleeping. However, while a nightguard will help with your symptoms, it’s best to address the root cause of your stress.
As you rush around during the festivities, be mindful of the impact stress can have on your dental health. By adopting stress management techniques and maintaining consistent oral care, you can enjoy the holidays with a smile, even if you do feel like knocking over the tree.
About the Author
Dr. Mike Rudolph is a friendly and professional dentist with a long 30-year history of helping patients achieve their finest smiles. He graduated from the Maryland School of Dentistry and then served in the US Navy for several years before starting his practice. If you need to get into the dentist’s chair before the holiday rush, now is the time! Call (574) 269-1787 to schedule an appointment at East Center Dental or visit the website to discover other services.