When you have a lot on your plate, are you one to sit in bed, eyes wide open at night, creating a to-do list in your head? Holiday stress has been known to increase people’s risk of developing dental health concerns due to more severe bruxism, or the grinding and clenching of the teeth. The force, wear-and-tear, and added muscular tension can create a whole host of problems for your smile in addition to worrying about what the main course of your Christmas dinner will be. Read on to learn more about bruxism and how you can protect your dental health in the wake of holiday stress.
How Can Stress Cause Teeth Grinding?
Bruxism, which is the clinical term for the grinding and clenching of the teeth as you sleep as well as unconsciously throughout the day, is a oral health issue that can be exacerbated as a result of stress.
The American Psychological Association conducted a survey of adults in the United States that found that as many as nine in 10 people say that they feel overwhelmed and stressed during the holidays. With issues like finances, expectations of visiting family members, fatigue, seasonal affective disorder, loneliness, and so much more being on millions of Americans minds, it’s no surprise that cases of bruxism increase over this time period.
Signs That You’re Grinding & Clenching
Although it’s possible for people to clench unconsciously throughout the day, a majority of the damage that bruxism can cause is often done at night when you’re asleep. This can make it difficult for people to notice that they’re bruxers. Some of the signs that you can keep an eye out for that signify this include:
- Waking up with a dull and thumping headache that persists throughout the day.
- Ringing in one or both of the ears.
- Difficulty opening and closing the mouth, making eating and speaking uncomfortable.
- Sore or painful jaw muscles.
If you notice any of these signs, your general dentist in Fort Worth can help assess not only your dental health, but also the severity of your bruxism and any consequential conditions, like TMJ disorder.
Ways to Prevent Complications Due to Bruxism
Based on your general dentist’s examination, they may recommend a few different tips to prevent additional damage from your smile, including investing in a customized nightguard. This will be placed over one of your arches of teeth before you go to bed to cushion them from grinding against each other, resulting in flat and worn teeth. It will also protect the jaw joints from strain caused by grinding, helping prevent headaches and pain. They may also recommend at-home massages for your jaw muscles and joints to help them relax.
Although the holidays are full of stress, it’s important to take preventive measures to minimize the toll that concern can have on your body, including your oral health. With the help of your general dentist and healthy coping skills to minimize your stress, you can prevent additional concerns from arising and get the most out of your holiday.
About the Author
Dr. Jasmine King has over 15 years of experience practicing dentistry. She values providing her patients with high-quality and comfortable care using the latest technology and doing everything she can to help keep her patients’ dental health on the right track. For bruxers, that looks like crafting customized cushioning nightguards that prevent issues like broken and worn-down teeth, as well as TMJ disorder. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Summer Creek Dentistry’s website or call 817-292-7488.