With heightened chaos and restrictions in place due to the ongoing global pandemic, it is no surprise that many individuals feel more stressed than usual. Increased stress levels can have a negative impact on your wellbeing, including your oral health.
Poor oral health can mean your smile has lost its luster, and stress-related habits are proven to be a contributor to this phenomenon. Dr. Natasha Radosavljevic, a dentist in Clearwater, FL, describes three stress-related behaviors that can lead you to require cosmetic dentistry treatment.
Staining Teeth with Beverages
Stress can be detrimental to your sleep schedule, so many people turn to a cup of coffee or tea for a caffeine boost to get them through their day. However, dark-colored beverages like tea or coffee contain tannins that can absorb into tooth enamel and leave stains on teeth.
Once absorbed, these stains cannot be removed with traditional brushing techniques. Adding milk to your drink or choosing a lighter-colored brew can lower the chance of tooth discoloration from your coffee.
Many dentists recommend enjoying this beverage in moderation or avoiding it to reduce the risk of staining your teeth. If you notice yellowing or discoloration in your teeth, you can talk to your dentist about professional teeth whitening treatment.
Grinding and Clenching Teeth
Grinding or clenching your teeth, a behavior called bruxism, can begin or increase with added stress in your daily life. This grating of the top arch of teeth against the bottom arch creates abnormal amounts of pressure that can crack, chip, or break your teeth.
Because this behavior often occurs unconsciously while you sleep, your dentist might suggest that you wear a mouthguard at night to protect your teeth from harm. Your dentist can provide you with a customized oral appliance designed to fit comfortably to the unique shape of your mouth to avoid disturbing your sleep while worn.
Skipping Dental Cleanings
With heightened stress levels, it may seem easier to skip your regular appointments, including routine dental cleanings, rather than venture to your dentist’s office. However, these appointments are crucial to maintaining your oral health as well as the appearance of your smile.
During these cleanings, your dentist clears plaque and tartar from spots in your mouth that are difficult to reach with teeth brushing and flossing. If left on your teeth, this plaque can spread and eat away at enamel.
This leaves your teeth vulnerable to cosmetic damage that can be costly to repair or treat. To protect your smile, you should see your dentist every six months for this vital cleaning.
Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments in Clearwater, FL
Dr. Radosavljevic offers teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry treatments to patients in Clearwater, FL. Our practice also specializes in restorative and general dentistry, including periodontal therapy. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 727.360.4302.