Dentist Antioch Stress Can Hurt Your Smile

Antioch Family Dentist Helps to Protect Your Teeth from Stressful Situation

 

No one is unfamiliar with stress and how it can negatively affect your day. There are countless ways that stress can put you down, both physically and mentally, but your Antioch family dentist is here to help battle these issues. Stress can cause severe problems with your teeth, gums and mouth, but it’s common that many people don’t realize that these issues are occurring until it’s too late. Below, we’ll discuss some of the dental problems that stress can cause and what you can do to maintain a healthy smile.

 

Teeth Grinding
If you’re stressed out, you may try to relieve this feeling by grinding and clenching your teeth. Most of the time, people don’t even realize that they’re doing it, whether it’s an unconscious motion or it’s happening when you’re sleeping.

 

When someone is grinding their teeth, they’re weakening the surface of your teeth (called your enamel), which causes sensitivity. Without your enamel staying strong and healthy, your dentin (the center of your tooth) is extremely vulnerable and can be damaged. As you lose your enamel, your teeth become sensitive because your teeth are sore and your nerves are being exposed. When your nerves become exposed, anything that comes in contact with them is an intense feeling, whether it’s hot or cold or spicy, will cause a sharp and stinging pain.

 

If you find yourself suffering from teeth grinding due to stress, don’t be afraid to ask us for some advice! We generally suggest a night guard if you’re waking up with a sore jaw and sensitive teeth so you’re protecting your teeth from grinding and damage.

 

Continue to protect your teeth with the help of your Antioch family dentist by scheduling an appointment and calling our office at (925) 777-1719.