Under Pressure for the Holidays: How Stress Affects Your Oral Health

The holidays are a time for “comfort and joy,” but they can also bring plenty of stress along for the ride! Between shopping, family gatherings, and getting schedules situated, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Some people simply accept it as part of the season, but did you know that holiday stress can affect more than just your mood? It can also take a toll on your oral health! Keep reading to learn how stress affects your teeth and gums—and how to protect your smile this season.

Teeth Grinding and Jaw Pain

One of the most common effects of stress is teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Stress is known to cause physical reactions that can cause you to clench or grind your teeth, especially during sleep. Over time, this can wear down your enamel, cause jaw pain, and even lead to cracked teeth.

If you notice soreness in your jaw or headaches when you wake up, talk to your dentist about a nightguard to protect your teeth. These custom appliances keep your merry whites from grinding together while you get some rest.

Skipping Oral Care

Holiday stress can also disrupt your daily routine. After all, it’s hard to handle normal obligations when there’s so much to do! Unfortunately, this makes it easy to skip brushing and flossing, leading to plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and even cavities.

Regardless of your busy schedule, try to make oral hygiene a priority! Set reminders on your phone and keep a travel toothbrush handy to stay on track. Ultimately, it’s around five minutes you’ll need to spare to keep your mouth feeling fresh, and it’s well worth it!

Weakening Your Immune System

Carrying too much stress gradually weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections, including gum disease. This causes swollen gums and bleeding and can lead to even more serious oral health issues if left untreated.

To avoid weakening your body, try to manage stress through plenty of relaxation and self-care. Deep breathing exercises, yoga, warm baths, and calming herbal teas are all great ways to help you melt the stress away. Combine these activities with a dental checkup and you’ll have a solid strategy to keep your smile sparkling through the season.

The holidays may be stressful, but protecting your oral health doesn’t have to be. By staying mindful of your habits and managing your stress, you can keep your smile bright and healthy for the new year and beyond!

About the Author

Dr. Jonathan Aguilar is a friendly and passionate dentist ready to help you support your oral health year-round—even during the hectic holiday season. He earned his dental degree at the Texas A&M College of Dentistry and continued learning through practice and advanced training. Today, he continues to provide quality dental care to every patient with state-of-the-art dental technology and techniques. Call (940) 566-5332 to schedule an appointment at Aguilar Family Dentistry or visit our website to learn more about our treatments and services.