When you often have to manage high stress levels, you may struggle with different negative effects on your mood, or even on your physical well-being. One thing you should not ignore is the potential impact of stress on your dental health. The impact of stress can affect people in different ways. Some individuals will begin to grind or clench their jaw unconsciously because they are processing stress, and that can cause dental damage. For others, stress can become a smile concern because it causes them to change their diet, or leads to a change in their oral care routine. Our Rochester, MN dentist’s office can help you prevent stress-related smile problems during routine dental exams and cleanings. We can also offer support by giving your guidance on maintaining a healthy smile even at times when stress is interfering with your life.
Issues With Your Well-Being Can Affect Your Dental Health
If your physical and emotional needs are not being met, it can become more difficult for you to protect your smile. Sometimes, people respond to stress with poor habits. An increase in tobacco use, caffeine consumption, or just an urge for comforting treats can make it harder for you to avoid problems with teeth stains and cavities. You can also wear down your teeth by grinding or clenching them. Identifying your less beneficial stress responses, and considering their impact on your smile, is a helpful first step that can lead to you more effectively protecting your smile.
Has Stress Caused You To Experience Problems With Teeth Grinding?
The pressure you exert when you grind your teeth may surprise you. As strong as they are, teeth are vulnerable to physical harm and wear and tear. Continuing to clench or grind your jaw can lead to chips and cracks, or changes in their shape. If damage is serious enough, it may need to be treated with a dental crown! If you have been unsuccessful in your attempts to control your teeth grinding, talk to your dentist about possible solutions.
Make Sure You Stick To Good Oral Health Habits Every Day
People are not always as consistent about oral health care as they believe they ought to be. If you feel too tired or stressed to keep on top of your hygiene routine, you can allow bacteria to gather and form tartar on your smile, which can make you more susceptible to cavities and gum disease. Simply sticking to a good routine – even at times when you might prefer not to – can be important for your long-term dental health!
Your Rochester, MN Dentist’s Office Can Help You Maintain Your Smile
At our Rochester, MN dentist’s office, we can offer in-office preventive care in addition to guidance that can help community members stay on top of their oral health needs. To find out more about our services, please call Calcagno Cosmetic And Family Dentistry at (507) 281-3659.
