As the hustle and bustle of the holiday season approaches, we’re faced with the stress of going here and there, buying presents, cooking food, visiting family, and the seemingly never-ending whirlwind that happens every year around this time. While we all know stress isn’t good for overall health, my dental practice in Little Falls, wants to let you know how it can also affect your mouth.

Clenching & Grinding

Whenever stress is a factor in someone’s life, they’re at increased risk for clenching and grinding. Both habits can cause some serious tooth problems including chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth. They have also been linked to TMJ disorder, which brings its own host of problems. If you notice any signs of clenching or grinding like worn-down teeth or jaw pain, give your Little Falls dentist a call.

Gum Disease

Research shows a link between stress and the development of gum disease. Gum disease is a serious condition that not only affects your mouth, but your whole body as well. If left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss, heart disease, and pregnancy complications, along with a host of other health problems.

Keep Calm for a Healthy Life

If you find your blood pressure rising during talks of Aunt Millie coming in for the holidays, or stressing about how in the world you’re going to make it to all those parties, you owe it to yourself, and your smile, to try to relax. These tricks can help:

• Take a deep breath… or several. Practicing deep breathing techniques has been proven to lower blood pressure and reduce overall anxiety levels. When you find yourself spinning in stress, find a quiet place, close your eyes, and just breathe.
• Sweat it out. Physical exercise releases endorphins — those magical chemicals in your brain that give you the feeling of happiness. Set aside some time for a walk, join a gym, or break out that yoga mat and strike a warrior pose. Namaste.
• Catch some Zzzz’s. With a crazy schedule it can be hard to get enough sleep. You deserve some you time — with nothing but your pillow and a comfy blanket. When your mind is in a constant state of stress, getting enough sleep is crucial to keeping you healthy so you can actually enjoy the holidays.

Don’t forget, it’s also important to never neglect your oral health routine. When you’re rushing around to parties and stores, it’s easy to forget to brush and floss everyday. Take the advice from the team at my dental office in Little Falls and keep up with your oral health. Your smile will thank you.

Welcoming patients from Little Falls, Totowa, and Montclair.