The holidays can be a stressful time of year and, believe it or not, this stress can impact your teeth as well. When we experience stress, our body’s inflammatory system is triggered, causing high levels of cortisol to flood our system. This can create issues such as bleeding when brushing and flossing, severe inflammation, and gingivitis. If left untreated, this can lead to full blown gum disease. Other oral health issues such as canker sores or cold sores may arise, as our immune system becomes weakened by extended periods of stress.
Most commonly, people experiencing stress may grind or clench their teeth, which puts an immense amount of strain on our teeth and jaws. This can lead to popping and clicking when opening and closing your mouth, as well as worn down teeth from constant grinding throughout the day and night. This wear can then further lead to tooth sensitivity as we grind down the enamel coating on our teeth, exposing the dentin which can cause hot and cold foods and drinks to be very uncomfortable to consume. Prolonged, untreated grinding and clenching may eventually lead to fractures in our teeth which may require a root canal or lead to the loss of the tooth in extreme situations.
Making an effort to manage stress may seem easier said than done, especially during this time of year, but it is important to your overall health and that of your oral health. If issues regarding your teeth arise, be sure to reach out to your dental healthcare provider for treatment or solutions to ensure your holidays are full of happy and, most importantly, healthy smiles!
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