‘Tis the season for giving, and our team wants to remind you to give yourself one of the most important gifts during the holiday season — a healthy smile!
Researchers have found a significant link between stress and oral health, helping us better understand how stress contributes to conditions like teeth grinding, gum disease, canker sores, and even dry mouth. And while these are direct links, stress can also take indirect paths to impact your dental health. If you are under holiday stress, you may end up neglecting your oral hygiene routine. There’s so much going on at this time of year, it can be hard to remember to brush and floss correctly. Sugary foods may be eaten more than usual during the holidays, and it can lead to tooth decay.
Painful dental problems can also increase your personal level of stress and anxiety. Our bodies may struggle to adapt to stressful situations, and tooth pain can become even more extreme during times of stress.
Your Dental Health is an Important Gift
If you’re feeling stressed during the holidays, don’t forget about taking care of yourself, and your dental health. Take time to focus on your oral hygiene routine, and don’t smoke or use alcohol to try and relieve your stress.
Eat well, exercise, and get plenty of rest. But if you find yourself suffering from extreme anxiety or depression, we hope you’ll seek professional help. And if you worry stress is affecting your teeth or gums, schedule a visit to Hilldale Dental. We can treat your dental problems and offer suggestions for better dental care during the holidays, and all year long.
