Protecting Your Smile During Stressful Times

Have you ever noticed yourself clenching your jaw while watching the news or checking your phone? You are not alone. During high-stress periods like election season, we see an increase in tooth damage from stress-related grinding and clenching. We want to help you protect your smile, so we have put together some important information and easy-to-follow tips.

Did You Know Your Enamel is Like Glass?

Your teeth are similar to glass – small stress fractures can develop over time before you notice any problems. That is why some patients are surprised when a tooth suddenly chips or breaks while eating something soft, like a sandwich. The damage actually began much earlier, usually during periods of increased stress.

Check Yourself for These Signs

• Place your hands gently on your cheeks
• Clench your teeth together
• If you feel your muscles bulging outward strongly, you might be clenching your teeth more often than you realize

Other warning signs include:

• Waking up with a tight jaw
• Morning headaches
• Sensitive teeth
• Finding yourself clenching during the day

Simple Steps to Protect Your Teeth

1. Mind Your Jaw Position

• Set regular reminders on your phone to relax your jaw
• Your teeth should not touch most of the time
• Try the "lips together, teeth apart" rule

2. Create Stress-Free Zones

• Limit news checking to specific times
• Take short walks when feeling tense
• Practice gentle jaw exercises (ask us for a handout!)

3. Night Protection

• If you have a night guard, wear it faithfully
• Consider wearing it during stressful daytime activities too
• Keep it clean and bring it to your check-ups

When to Call Us

Please don't wait to reach out if you:

• Notice any new chips or cracks
• Experience tooth sensitivity
• Feel persistent jaw pain
• Have questions about mouth guards

Remember...

Your dental health is connected to your overall well-being. Taking care of your teeth during stressful times isn't just about preventing damage – it's about maintaining your whole-body health.

Want to discuss your specific concerns? We are here to help!

Call us to schedule an appointment.

Stay healthy and keep smiling!
Dr. Lagreca & the MC DMD Team

• https://www.drbicuspid.com/dental-specialties/orofacial-pain/tmj-tmd/article/15706611/how-to-save-your-teeth-during-election-season-and-other-stressful-times
• https://now.tufts.edu/2022/06/08/dental-emergencies-years-making