Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, many of our patients are experiencing an unusual amount of stress in their daily lives. At Smiles of Trinity Family Dentistry, we want to provide you some information on how stress affects your dental health. As your trusted dentist in Trinity, FL, it’s important to us that we continue to emphasize good oral health care during this time.
Poor Oral Hygiene Habits
Under high stress, many people’s daily schedules get mixed up. A lack of routine can lead to poor oral hygiene habits. Additionally, it can be difficult to know what to prioritize during periods of high stress, like this one. We want to encourage our patients to continue prioritizing their oral health. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. While this seems like a simple tip, it will go a long way in preventing future dental concerns like gum disease. Your dental health is directly intertwined with your overall health. It’s in your best interest to continue practicing good oral hygiene even when times get tough.
Poor Dietary Habits
Sugary and teeth-staining foods and beverages are some of the most common substances that people turn to when they are under high amounts of stress. Foods like hard-candies, potato chips, citrus fruits, or tomato-based sauces are notoriously tough on your teeth. Additionally, beverages like sodas, coffees, and teas can lead to unsightly stains on your teeth surfaces. Practice consuming these foods and drinks in moderation to prevent plaque and tartar buildup, in addition to tooth stains. If you do indulge in these foods and beverages, follow them up by brushing or flossing your teeth to remove any residue they have left behind. When the residue is left behind on your teeth long enough, it can harden into plaque and tartar, which requires a professional dentist to remove it from your gum line.
Jaw Pain and Headaches
Most people hold a lot of stress in their facial muscles. This can cause jaw pain and headaches amongst several other distracting symptoms. These symptoms can also be signs of teeth grinding, which if left untreated can lead to tooth damage. We want to encourage our patients to practice mindfulness throughout this very stressful time. Take periodic breaks throughout the day to relax your facial muscles and stretch your jaw around to relieve tension. If you suspect you’ve been grinding your teeth, mention this at your next dental appointment.
We want to wish everyone in our community continued health and safety during this particularly difficult time. Please contact us if you need dental care during this crisis. We look forward to seeing you soon.