Don’t Let Stress Ruin Your Holidays!
Now that Thanksgiving has passed, many of us have moved on to planning and getting into the spirit for the upcoming December holidays. While there is plenty of excitement in the air, there are certainly some stressors that can come into play around this time of year, especially with travel uncertainties, shipping delays that are being experienced across the country, and the overwhelming feeling of trying to fit everything on the to-do list in a few short weeks. The added stress can wreak havoc on not only your overall health, but your oral health as well. Continue reading to learn about how your stress levels can impact your oral health.
Don’t Let Stress Impact Your Oral Health
There is no denying that although this time of year can be magical, it is also stressful as well. Finalizing holiday plans, shopping for gifts, and maintaining your daily routine can get overwhelming for anyone. You may be surprised to learn that added stress in your life can impact the state of your oral health.
One common side effect of stress is teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism. The longer that you grind or clench your teeth, the greater the chance that you experience a dental emergency. Many patients are surprised to learn that they grind their teeth, as it is commonly experienced during sleep. Although the enamel on your teeth is the strongest substance in your body, it is not indestructible. One common result of teeth grinding is worn teeth, which eventually can lead to cracked or broken teeth.
One of the best ways to check the status of your oral health and avoid a dental emergency is to visit our office regularly for a hygiene examination and cleaning. If it has been longer than six months since your last visit, we recommend calling our office located in Silverdale, WA to schedule an appointment. It is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of any remaining insurance benefits you have before they reset at the beginning of the new year. We would hate for your dental health to impact your holiday festivities. Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and healthy holiday season!