The holidays are a time for family, fun, and unfortunately sometimes it can mean a lot of stress, too. Between the busy stores, the travel, and all that cooking, it gets overwhelming. But don’t let that seasonal chaos harm your oral health. Here are a few ways stress can damage your smile, and a how to help protect your teeth and gums this winter and beyond.
Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching
Do you grind your teeth or clench your jaw when you’re anxious or stressed? Your smile could be in danger if you do. Grinding (also known as Bruxism) can cause excessive wear on your teeth and can even cause them to chip or break under pressure. Clenching your jaw can be just as dangerous, even if your teeth don’t contact each other. It can put a strain on your temporomandibular joint, causing TMJ dysfunction and pain.
Canker Sores
Canker sores aren’t dangerous, but they can certainly be painful. They are caused by accidentally biting your cheek, brushing too harshly, and by stress. If you are noticing an increase in them this time of year, be sure to take good care of them by keeping your teeth and gums clean. They will go away on their own in about one to two weeks but can be managed with OTC pain reliever and oral numbing gel.
How to Treat Stress-Related Oral Health Problems
If you are suffering from holiday stress that’s taking its toll on your oral health, here are a few things you can try to help alleviate some of the pain and prevent it from continuing:
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid caffeinated drinks
- Try to not mouth breathe
- Use a humidifier
- Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals
If your pain continues to worsen, or your symptoms do not clear up after your stress levels return to normal, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for an appointment. It could be as simple as getting a custom mouthguard made to treat TMJ dysfunction and prevent teeth grinding or repairing a damaged tooth if you have a grinding-related injury.
About Dr. Kassem
Dr. Wael M. Kassem loves being able to make a difference in the lives of his patients, and that includes helping them to relieve the pain and pressure that stress can put on their smiles. If you are experiencing any discomfort in your teeth and gums this holiday season or any other time, schedule an appointment with iSmile Dental Arts for an evaluation. Dr. Kassem and the team can help diagnose the problem and find a treatment that alleviates the pain, so you have one less thing to stress about! To schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call us today at 856-818-9998.
