It remains a stressful time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies show stress not only harms overall health but can harm your oral health, as well. Reducing stress is important to maintaining a healthy smile and good oral health.

Stress has been shown to contribute to a variety of oral health conditions. For example, the American Dental Association recently shared a survey regarding dentists and endodontists currently seeing more patients with cracked teeth, with a direct correlation to these injuries coming from stress and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. From this survey, dentists have seen more cases of teeth grinding (59.4%), chipped and cracked teeth (53.4%) and more.

Other oral health conditions that can be caused by stress include:

• Dry mouth
• Canker sores
• Tooth decay
• Gum disease

Here are ways to help keep your entire mouth healthy while trying to lessen stress.

• Stay on track with your oral health routine. Always brush two times each day for two minutes, floss once daily and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and exams to lessen your risk for cavities and gum disease.
• Get plenty of sleep, stay active and try relaxation techniques, like meditation, to help you de-stress.
• Limit your caffeine and alcohol intake and eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of water.
• If you wake up with headaches or experience frequent jaw pain, you may clench or grind your teeth during your sleep. Discuss frequent jaw pain with your dentist at your next appointment. They may recommend the use of a night guard to help protect your teeth from breaking, chipping or being worn down.

Although stress is sometimes unavoidable and a part of life, especially right now, following these steps can help you relax and make sure stress does not impact your oral or overall health.