Don’t Let Stress Affect Your Smile
There are a lot of great reasons to focus on your mental and emotional well-being – it can strengthen your relationships, boost your productivity, and reduce your risk for anxiety and depression. But did you know that caring for your emotional health can also support your oral health? Several oral health conditions can stem from, or be complicated by, excess levels of stress. These include: Canker sores Dry mouth Gum disease (periodontitis) Teeth grinding (bruxism) Say “yes” to self-care Self-care isn’t selfish. In fact, making sure you have time and space for yourself is a vital part of reducing stress. How you approach self-care should be unique to you, but here are a few tips for getting started: Try to exercise regularly. Even a short walk allows you to enjoy the scenery, while still bringing benefits of movement. Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, guided meditation, or deep breathing. Eat […]
Give Thanks for Your Smile
Every November, millions sit down around the dinner table to share the ways they are thankful for one another. They also enjoy a Thanksgiving feast, one of the most anticipated meals of the year! With traditional dishes like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie, Turkey Day is overflowing with everyone’s favorite comfort foods – but unfortunately, those foods are often also loaded with starches and sugars that can damage your teeth, contribute to gum disease, and negatively influence your health in general. So, as you sit down to your Thanksgiving dinner and consider what you’re grateful for, take a moment to recognize the connection between your diet, your smile, and your overall well-being. Your Mouth in Action One thing to give thanks for during the meal? The way your teeth, mouth, and tongue work together to make sure you can chew, taste, and enjoy your food: Incisors are […]
Celebrate National Smile Month
June is here, and so is National Smile Month! Take time this month to discover fun and creative tips for maintaining a healthier smile and a healthier you! Give yourself a gift. Toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months – or sooner if the bristles appear frayed. Pick up a new one for you – or buy a batch for the whole family. Say cheese in two ways. Summer is a great time to stock up on nutrient-rich foods from your nearby farmer’s market and talk to your kids about the importance of healthy snacking such as fruits, vegetables, and low-fat cheeses. Additionally, you can capture your family’s healthy, happy smiles with a family portrait. Every time you flip through the album, your family’s pearly whites can remind you to celebrate oral health all year long! Help bring a smile to someone else. Encourage your loved ones to […]
Tips for Choosing an In-Network Provider
Whether you’re looking for a dentist close to home, one with great recommendations from patients, or a dentist office with flexible office hours that fit your schedule, we make it easy to find dental care providers. Learn how to find an in-network provider and why choosing an in-network dentist can help you save money. Talk about something worth smiling about! What Does “In-Network Dentist” Mean? An in-network dentist means that your dentist is part of your dental plan, and they have agreed to provide you with dental care at your plan’s rate. An out-of-network dentist is separate from your dental plan and has not agreed to pre-established rates for treatment. You may choose to see an out-of-network dentist, but you may pay end up paying more out of your own pocket. The difference in fees between in- and out-of-network dentists is often called a “discount” or “network savings.” Those with […]
How Mental Health Impacts Oral Health
Did you know that your mental health can affect your oral health? It’s easy to understand how brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups keep your teeth and gums healthy. However, you might not realize that your emotional well-being can also affect your teeth and gums. Chronic stress, depression, and anxiety can affect oral health in various ways, and it’s essential to consider mental health in oral health care. Keep reading to learn more about the connection between mental health and oral health. Stress and Oral Health Stress and anxiety are common mental health challenges that affect many people globally. Stress can make your heart rate increase, breathing shallow, and blood pressure spike, leading to clenching and grinding of teeth. When an excess amount of the stress hormone cortisol is found in the mouth, you’re more susceptible to chronic diseases, including gum disease.2 It has also been proven to contribute to: Inflammation […]
