Is Stress Taking A Toll On Your Teeth?
With the holidays right around the corner, many people are experiencing moments of stress. Although this time of year can be joyful, it can also bring worries that cause feelings of unease. While stress can negatively impact your overall health, it can also affect your oral health. One of the most common dental problems patients experience during times of stress is bruxism. Read on to learn about this condition and how it can lead to issues with your oral health.
What to Know About Bruxism
When you feel stressed or anxious, it’s normal for your body to become tense. This is one of the reasons people enjoy getting back and neck massages to relieve tension. You might be surprised to learn that tension can also affect your jaw and mouth, leading to a condition known as bruxism. Bruxism refers to the repeated clenching and grinding of teeth, often unconsciously. Many people are unaware they suffer from this condition because it typically occurs during sleep.
One of the best ways to determine if you have bruxism is to visit our office for your routine oral hygiene examination. We can easily detect bruxism by visually inspecting your teeth, and an X-ray can reveal the extent of any damage. Bruxism can lead to complications such as:
- Headaches
- Jaw or facial discomfort
- Worn enamel
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Popping or clicking of the jaw
If you suffer from bruxism or are concerned about wear on your teeth from clenching during times of stress, be sure to contact our office to schedule an appointment. We are happy to help patients located in Wilmington, Pike Creek, Newark, DE, and the surrounding areas. Our goal is to ensure you have optimal oral health both now and in the future.
