Holiday Stress and Your Teeth

It’s that time again. Time for feasts, family, shopping, and all the craziness the holidays bring. Between scheduling parties, buying presents, cooking food, and finding room for the in-laws who just told you last week they’re staying the whole month (ahh!!), stress levels are bound to be high. When we’re stressed, our bodies can become compromised. So can our teeth.

Clenching, Grinding, and Jaw Pain

Clenching and grinding can happen during stress-free periods, but are often brought on because of stress. They can cause tooth damage including chips, cracks, and fractures, and can also lead to severe jaw pain. If you’re experiencing worn down teeth, clicking or popping in the jaw joint, or jaw pain, give your Bakersfield dentist a call.

Gum Disease

One of the more serious oral health concerns is gum disease. Risk factors for developing gum disease can include smoking, diabetes, and dry mouth. More recently, research has shown a correlation between emotions and gum disease. Those in prolonged stressful situations have had a higher incidence of gum disease, and more serious gum disease than those in a more carefree state of mind. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and whole body concerns like heart disease, so it’s important to avoid the risk factors as much as possible.

Stay Healthy, Relax a Little

At my Bakersfield dental office, we completely understand that sometimes life can be incredibly stressful, especially during the holidays. It’s our mission to educate and help keep all of our patients healthy — both their mouths and their bodies. If you find yourself stressing out a bit this season, try a few of our tips.

• Eat. Try your best to maintain a healthy, balanced diet to keep your energy levels high, your nutrition complete, and your body and smile in tip-top shape.

• Sleep. Sleep is such a wonderful thing, and is usually the first thing we sacrifice when our schedules are packed and our lives are crazy. Make sure to set some time aside for your bed, snuggle in, and relax.

• Exercise. Whether it’s a daily walk, jog, or yoga session, it’s important to keep your blood pumping. Exercise is naturally stress reducing, so don’t skip that gym day.

If you’re feeling the holiday stress and think your oral health may be compromised, give my dental office in Bakersfield a call. We’ll invite you into our relaxing office, check out what’s going on, and work with you to develop a personalized treatment so you can smile with confidence and enjoy this holiday season.

Serving patients from Bakersfield, Shafter, and Tehachapi.