Don’t Let Stress Crack Your Smile! HOW TO MANAGE TEETH GRINDING DURING HIGH-STRESS PERIODS As we dive deeper into the school year and prepare for the upcoming holidays, we must remember how stress can impact our dental health. While September might bring a lull in dental issues like cracked teeth, our team often sees an uptick in these cases from October to New Year’s Day. This is when stress levels and teeth grinding and clenching tend to rise. RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS OF TEETH GRINDING Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, is a common issue that many people don’t even realize they have. It often happens unconsciously, either while sleeping or during the day. A dentist can spot the telltale signs of grinding, even if you’re unaware of it. Some critical indicators of teeth grinding include flattened bottom teeth, jaw pain, headaches, cracked teeth, and any unusual tooth pain. These symptoms result from the excessive pressure on your teeth and jaw muscles during grinding. So, believe your dentist when they point out these signs!
PAW-SITIVE EFFECTS
We all know a family pet can bring a world of fun, but animal companions are actually proven to do much more than that! Pets are more than just your kids’ companions; they play a significant role in child development. Here’s how every child can benefit from growing up with a furry (or not-so-furry) friend. SOCIAL SKILLS AND EMPATHY Pets often serve as a child’s first friend and confidant. Interacting with a pet requires a child to read nonverbal cues and respond appropriately, which can enhance their empathy and understanding of emotional states. When a child learns to care for the needs of their beloved pet, they learn that other people also have needs and emotions that must be cared for. HEALTH BENEFITS Numerous studies have shown that children with pets are less likely to develop common allergies and asthma. Surprisingly enough, it didn’t matter whether these kids grew up with cats or dogs; both were equally likely to help prevent asthma and certain allergies. Of course, children who have already been diagnosed can have their symptoms triggered by their furry friends. That’s why parents should consider introducing a pet as early as possible! EMOTIONAL SUPPORT Pets provide a unique comfort that can sometimes elude even the closest family members. During challenging or stressful times, a pet can comfort a child. A pet’s presence can be incredibly soothing and reassuring, providing a silent strength without the complication of human emotions. FUN AND ADVENTURE Let’s not forget that pets are fun! They bring laughter and joy to a household. Kids’ adventures with their pets — from exploring the backyard jungles with a trusty dog to hosting a tea party with a patient feline — can foster creativity and imagination. Pets truly make a home more vibrant and livelier. They teach lessons in love, life, and the joy of simple things. So, if you’re contemplating adding a pet to your family, know that the pitter-patter of little paws can benefit your child’s development. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want an extra dose of unconditional love around the house? THE INTEGRAL ROLE OF PETS IN ENHANCING CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT
PRACTICE PREVENTATIVE MEASURES One of the best ways to protect your teeth from the effects of grinding is to use a night guard. These custom- fitted devices act as a barrier,
preventing your teeth from grinding against each other while you sleep. Night guards are typically the first line of defense in treating bruxism.
In addition to using a night guard, ensure you sleep on a good pillow and maintain a healthy sleep schedule. A supportive pillow can help align your jaw properly, reducing the strain contributing to grinding. Getting sufficient rest is crucial as fatigue can
exacerbate stress and, in turn, increase the likelihood of grinding.
MANAGE STRESS FOR DENTAL HEALTH While it’s not always possible to eliminate stress from your life, taking steps to manage it can significantly impact your dental health. Simple practices such as regular exercise, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress levels. Remember, stress management is not just about mental well-being but also about protecting your physical health, including your teeth. As we approach the high-stress season of the holidays, now is the perfect time to start taking steps to protect your smile. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of teeth grinding, schedule an appointment with our team. We can provide everything you need to protect your teeth from stress- induced grinding and clenching!
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