It is currently a stressful time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies show that stress not only harms your overall health, but it 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 the following oral health conditions:

• Bruxism (teeth grinding)
• Dry mouth
• Canker sores
• Tooth decay
• Gum disease

Here are some good ways to help keep your whole mouth healthy, while you work to lower your stress levels.

• 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 or 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 such stress doesn’t impact your oral or overall health. TruAssure hopes you can be as stress-free as possible during this challenging time period.