Franklin 
There’s a lot of stress and anxiety surrounding COVID-19, so the last thing you need in your life is a dental emergency making things worse. Unfortunately, many of the ways we cope with stress can actually damage our teeth and gums over time, leading to serious issues that will require treatment from your dentist in Tyler. Read on to find out what behaviors you should avoid to protect your teeth during these difficult times.
#1 – Clenching and Grinding Your Teeth
If you’ve woken up with jaw pain in the morning, it might be a sign that you are grinding and clenching your teeth at night. This is a condition known as bruxism, and it’s one of the most common stress related dental issues. The force your teeth exert on each other while grinding can cause cracks in the enamel. Teeth can even begin to move, which can result in gum recession and the formation of deep pockets for bacteria to collect in. The key to stopping bruxism is managing the sources of stress in your life. Try delegating some of your work or talking to someone about stressful situations so your mind doesn’t focus on them.
#2 – Biting Your Nails
When you bite your nails, you’re placing a lot of pressure on your teeth. The surface that makes contact with the nail gets worn down and becomes less effective to chew food with. Your appearance also suffers, as damaged front teeth are very noticeable when you smile. Try wearing nail polish or covering your hands with mittens to discourage this behavior.
#3 – Brushing Too Hard
At the end of a difficult day, brushing your teeth can provide you with a sense of control that you may not be able to find in other parts of your life. However, brushing too hard or often can be detrimental to your oral health. Applying too much pressure with your toothbrush will damage the enamel and wear away at your gum tissue, leading to canker sores and sensitivity issues in the future.
To protect your teeth, brush them gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Relax your hand while brushing to prevent yourself from using too much force. Alternatively, consider using an electric toothbrush. Many brands have sensors built into them to tell you when you’re brushing too hard.
#4 – Chewing Ice
Many people find chewing ice to be a soothing activity, but it’s anything but soothing for your teeth. The force required to break ice apart can cause small fractures in the enamel. These fractures can provide an entry point for bacteria, leading to a greater risk for cavities and temperature sensitivity. If you need to chew on something, try sugar free gum instead.
#5 – Snacking on Sugary Foods
If you’re working from home, you’re always close to your kitchen, which means grabbing a snack has never been easier. But if you’re snacking on sweet or sticky food, then you’re giving the bacteria in your mouth everything they need to start causing tooth decay. Hiding sweet snacks in hard to reach places or substituting them entirely with healthier ones like fresh fruit or vegetable sticks will improve the overall health of your teeth.
How Can I Protect Myself from Stress?
There are many great strategies available to cope with stress. Here are just a few:
- Sleeping: Try to get at least eight hours of sleep per day.
- Eating Well: Avoid sugary foods and caffeinated drinks. Incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet.
- Exercising: Spend at least 30 minutes a day working out and not thinking about the sources of stress in your life.
- Breathing: When you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, take a few minutes to just breathe deeply and concentrate on the world in front of you.
Remember, stress is temporary, but your teeth need to last a lifetime. Use these strategies to maintain your oral health during these difficult times.
About the Author
Dr. Franklin-Pitts is a comprehensive dentist based in Tyler. She believes in staying up to date on the latest advancements in dentistry so she can provide her patients with the best care possible. She is a member of the American Dental Association, the East Texas Dental Association, and the Smith County Dental Association. If you need help protecting your teeth from stress, you can reach her at her website, or at 903-593-2330.