Don’t Let Stress Grind You Down

We all know chronic stress can take a toll on our health: depression, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and anxiety disorders are just a few of the conditions that stress can trigger. But did you know that elevated stress levels can also affect your oral health? According to a recent study, patients who report high stress at home and in the work place are more likely to grind their teeth (a condition known as bruxism). And it’s not only the stress – coping mechanisms may play a role too.

Here’s what the study found: People with a greater occurrence of bruxism were more likely to:

Deal with stress in a negative manner, such as escapism
Smoke in response to stressful situations
Have overtly ambitious personalities
Be between the age of 20-45

Bruxism may not seem like a big deal when compared to other stress-induced illnesses, but it can greatly impact your day-to-day quality of living. Clenching and grinding can lead to tooth wear, loose teeth, bone density, hypersensitivity, headaches, and chronic pain in the jaw. People who grind their teeth are at a greater risk of tooth loss, as well. To help curb the ill effects of bruxism, Dr. Pate can provide a custom nightguard designed to minimize the damaging effects of involuntary gnashing, clenching, and grinding. A nightguard can also provide relief from sensitivity and chronic headaches, although some stress-relief therapies may be recommended, as well.

If you’re experiencing high levels of stress, consider the following suggestions to help improve your mental, physical, and oral health:

Get plenty of rest – During deep sleep, your brain digests the emotional activity from the previous day, so you wake up prepared for another day’s activities.
Avoid caffeine – This popular stimulant contributes to clenching and can prevent you from getting a restful night’s sleep.
Exercise regularly – Physical activity eases anxiety and releases mood-enhancing endorphins.
Watch your diet – Proper nutrition, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, ensures your body has what it needs to cope in stressful situations.
Become self-aware – If you notice yourself becoming stressed, try to monitor your reactions and use positive reinforcement to view the stressor in a positive light. Discussing the problem may also help you avoid internalizing stress and manifesting it in other, negative ways.
Laugh! – Studies show that laughter relaxes the body, boosts the immune system, and releases anxiety-reducing endorphins.

While the precise stress factors that trigger bruxism are up for debate, the consensus is that stress certainly plays a large role. Talk to Dr. Pate about preventive techniques that will keep you smiling long-term. Call (404) 266-9424 to schedule an appointment. Our Buckhead dental office serves patients from Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Lenox, and the surrounding areas.

We love to make you smile!