We all know that excessive stress can affect our mental health, sleep patterns. and relationships. But can stress also affect our oral health? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Right now dentists from all over the country are seeing an increase in tooth fractures, and pandemic stress could be the culprit.
If you answered yes, you could be doing damage to your teeth. “Your teeth shouldn’t actually touch throughout the day at all unless you’re actively eating and chewing your food,” said an article in The New York Times.So, what happens if you have any cracked teeth? These cracks can damage the enamel exposing the dentin. It’s important to stay on track with your 6-month dental checkups because if you do have any fractured teeth (and you’re not experiencing any pain), x-rays and exams can catch these issues BEFORE they cause a problem. Although, if you notice any cracked teeth or you’re experiencing any pain, schedule an appointment as soon as you can. Untreated decay and tooth damage can infect the root, which may require a root canal.
#1: Stop yourself from grinding or clenching your teeth whenever you notice it happening. Take a few moments and focus on relaxing your jaw, and perhaps taking a few deep breaths if you’re thinking/working on something that is stressful.#2: If you know that you’re prone to grinding your teeth, and your dentist has already prescribed a nightguard, you can wear it during the day when you’re not eating or drinking. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and notice that your jaw is hurting from being clenched together more than usual, wearing your night guard during the day will help.#3: If you’re still working from home, it’s a great idea to inspect your workspace and make adjustments so that you don’t experience any discomfort or pain at the end of the workday. An article by Flexjobs recommends you start with your desk. Make sure your monitor is placed at the correct height, help support your spine by sitting in the correct chair and take multiple standing breaks.Also, try to set a designated time to “clock out” just as you would if you were reporting to an actual office. While this may be difficult, especially if you’re trying to work from home with kids, try to set aside time for you to decompress and wind-down at the end of your day. This will not only help you separate work time from home time, but it can help alleviate stress.Have you had your first checkup for 2021 yet? If not, give us a call today at (804) 794-4588 to schedule an appointment. We’ll provide you with a thorough exam, along with x-rays, to check on the health of your smile, as well as provide any recommendations we see fit.
