Protecting Your Teeth From Holiday Stress

Stress can do a lot of damage to your health and holiday stress is no exception. When it comes to oral health, clenching your jaw standing in line or grinding your teeth in traffic can do significant harm. This stress can wear down teeth enamel and even lead to joint problems, headaches, neck aches, or jaw pain.

Learn how to protect your mouth when stress levels are sky high.

1. Stick to your oral hygiene routine. During the holidays, you may be running around all day long. Even if you’re exhausted, don’t skip brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing. Starting and ending the day with a clean mouth may even help to improve your mood.
2. Keep a healthy diet. One of the biggest pitfalls with stress and the holidays is the abundance of sugary, unhealthy foods. Stress eating may feel like a good idea at the time, but it can have damaging effects on your mouth and your waistline. Try to make healthy foods, like fresh fruits and veggies, just as available as the holiday goodies.
3. Find time for exercise. While you may not be able to keep your regular gym routine, try to make time for a few exercises at home. A quick walk or a few yoga moves are easy ways to quickly reduce stress and improve your mood.

Sources:

• http://greatist.com/happiness/23-scientifically-backed-ways-reduce-stress-right-now
• http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044456
• http://www.everydayhealth.com/emotional-health/anxiety/can-anxiety-affect-your-teeth.aspx