Cinco de Mayo Head Assistant Fun!

At Lane & Associates Family Dentistry we know how important meetings are for professional development and growth, but we also know they don’t have to be boring! Our Head Assistants celebrated their quarterly meeting in style. The entire meeting was Cinco de Mayo themed from decor to games to food. Table runners in a variety of colors hosted paper flowers, vases filled with colored water and fresh flower arrangements, and mini sombreros. The assistants were filled with surprise and even took pieces of the table arrangements with them!

Awards and accolades were distributed throughout the meeting. We learned and ate lunch catered by Chinelos. The delicious spread included chicken, beef, beans, rice, guacamole, salad, salsa, and a cheese fountain!

To conclude the meeting each Head Assistant received a piñata stuffed with candy and a special prize. The prizes included: 2 sets of 6 tickets to a Mudcats baseball game, a total of $360 cash, and $150 worth of gift cards.

We thoroughly enjoyed celebrating Cinco de Mayo with our Head Assistants and cannot wait for our next themed meeting.

Here are some fun captures of Wednesday’s meeting!

 

Share this post:

Lane & Associates Family Dentistry Celebrates Administrative Professionals Day!

Lane & Associates Family Dentistry (LAA) along with NC Oral Surgery + Orthodontics (NCOSO) took the opportunity to celebrate our employees this past Wednesday for Administrative Professionals Day!  Administrative Professionals’ Day, also known as Admin Day recognizes the people who keep an office running every day. Administrative workers at all levels are recognized for their hard work behind – and directly in front of – the scenes, making sure things run smoothly throughout the entire company and supporting their staff in any way they can. We know we have the best teams out there and we could not do what we do without them.

Our administrative staff is indispensable and make running our company a lot easier, by doing their jobs so well.” says Dr. Lane.

There are no absolute traditions for Administrative Professionals’ Day but we’ve created our own appreciation culture at LAA! A small yearly tribute to the people who work hard to keep the company running smoothly is the least we can do to show them that we appreciate them and acknowledge just how lost we would be without them. Each administrative staff member received a gift from Dr. and Mrs. Lane. The gift included a branded wristband keychain along with a $25.00 Target gift card.

Employees from multiple offices shared their photos, videos, and thank you messages on social media. We loved seeing how the offices celebrated individually! They truly are the Key to our Success!

Take a look at this fun compilation of employees with their gifts! Does your company celebrate Admin Day? Want to know more about Administrative Professional’s Day? Looking for ideas on how to celebrate? Read the article linked here for information and ideas.

Share this post:

Senior Citizen Smiling

It’s never too late to improve your smile. Even if you are in your 70s or 80s, you can still have your teeth whitened. Teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your smile, and it can be done at any age.

Types of Teeth Whitening Procedures for Seniors

There are a few different types of teeth whitening procedures that are available for seniors. One option is to use an at-home teeth whitening kit, which can be purchased from a drugstore or online. This type of kit usually involves using a bleaching agent that is applied to the teeth with a brush. Another option is to go to a dentist’s office to have your teeth whitened. There are different types of treatments available, including laser teeth whitening, which uses a strong light and bleaching agent that is applied directly to the teeth; or an in-office treatment with steam cleaning and fluoride application.

It may seem surprising that seniors can actually still benefit from having their teeth whitened, but it’s true! Even if you haven’t had your teeth whitened in many years, it’s never too late to start thinking about it. If you are considering a teeth whitening procedure, be sure to talk to your dentist first to find out what option would be best for you.

Do Teeth Yellow As You Age?

As you age, your teeth may begin to yellow. This is due to a number of factors, including changes in the enamel, accumulation of plaque and tartar, and aging of the dentin. While yellowing teeth are typically inevitable with age, it is not health concern in and of itself.

So, do teeth yellow as you age? Yes, they do, but there are things you can do to prevent or reduce yellowing teeth and maintain a bright, white smile. If you’re concerned about the health of your teeth, talk to your dentist and follow their advice for keeping your pearly whites in great shape.

Whether we like it or not, as we get older our bodies begin to show signs of wear and tear. This is especially true for our teeth, which can become yellowed, stained, and even slightly misshapen over time.

When Should a Senior Not Have A Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening procedures are popular among all age groups, with people of all ages looking to improve the appearance of their teeth. However, there is no set age where you are too old for a teeth whitening procedure. In fact, as long as you are in good overall health and your dentist agrees that a whitening procedure is safe for you, there is no upper age limit on this procedure.

There are some things to consider before undergoing a teeth whitening procedure. First, it’s important to make sure that any underlying medical conditions are treated or controlled prior to having your teeth whitened. For example, if you have gum disease or exposed tooth roots due to receding gums, you may want to treat this issue first. Your dentist can help you determine if there are underlying health concerns that could impact the results of your teeth whitening procedure.

Additionally, it’s important to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy before undergoing a teeth whitening procedure. This includes having regular dental checkups and cleanings in order to treat any dental issues that may be present. It’s also important to make sure that you have no cavities or other problems before undergoing a teeth whitening procedure, as these can impact the results of your treatment.

Because of these things, it is recommended that older adults who are considering teeth whitening procedures consult with a dentist first to make sure that their teeth and gums are healthy enough for this procedure. Those who have underlying health conditions or dental problems may need to wait until these issues have been treated before undergoing a whitening procedure, but most older adults can safely undergo a teeth whitening treatment as long as they consult with their dentist first.

Conclusion

Teeth whitening procedures are popular among all age groups, with people of all ages looking to improve the appearance of their teeth. However, there is no set age where you are too old for a teeth whitening procedure. In fact, as long as you are in good overall health and your dentist agrees that a whitening procedure is safe for you, there is no upper age limit on this procedure.

Share this post:

Tartar is a hardened plaque that unfortunately, can only be removed through a professional cleaning at the dentist. However, there are some things you can do at home to help prevent tartar build-up in the first place. To prevent plaque accumulation on your teeth, brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and utilize a tartar-control toothpaste or mouthwash. If you do notice any build-up, you should see your dentist for a professional cleaning.

What is Tooth Tartar?

Tooth tartar is a hard, yellow-brown deposit that forms on teeth. It is made of plaque, bacteria, and food debris. Tartar can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.

Tartar is a major contributor to gum disease. It can also cause bad breath, and if not removed, tartar can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss.

Most people have some tartar on their teeth. The chances of having tartar increase with age. Poor oral hygiene habits, such as not brushing or flossing regularly, can also increase the risk of tartar buildup.

What Causes Tartar Build-up?

Tartar build-up is typically the result of poor oral hygiene habits. plaque, a sticky film that forms on teeth, is the most common way tartar can develop. if plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it will harden into tartar. other things that can cause tartar to develop include smoking and drinking coffee or tea. Tartar build-up can also be the result of certain medical conditions, such as dry mouth or gingivitis. A dentist can remove tartar through a professional cleaning. Regular brushing and flossing at home can also help prevent tartar build-up.

What are Signs of Tartar Build-up?

There are a few ways to notice if you are developing tartar build-up on your teeth. The first thing to look out for is any discoloration or yellowing of the tooth surface. This can be a sign that bacteria have already started to eat away at your enamel and cause damage.

Another telltale sign of tartar is bad breath, which may appear if you fail to regularly brush or floss your teeth. Tartar can also form around the gum line, causing irritation and inflammation in this area. If left untreated, this can lead to periodontal disease and other serious dental issues such as tooth loss.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to see a dentist right away for an evaluation. They will be able to determine if you have tartar build-up and develop a treatment plan to remove it before it causes further damage to your teeth.

When to See a Dentist for Tartar Removal?

The best time to see a dentist for tartar removal is when you first start to see the build-up. If it’s not caught early, tartar can lead to more serious dental problems.

Your dentist will usually catch tartar buildup during your routine visits. However, if you’re concerned about the build-up, you can always schedule an appointment with your dentist to have it checked out. Depending on the severity of the buildup, your dentist may recommend a professional cleaning or other treatments to remove the tartar.

If you’re noticing signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums or receding gums, it’s important to talk to your dentist right away. Tartar can contribute to gum disease and serious oral health problems if it’s not treated.

Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you’re concerned about tartar buildup. They can help you determine the best course of treatment to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

How to Prevent Tartar Build-up?

Toothbrush

There are a few things that you can do to prevent tartar build-up on your teeth. One is to brush your teeth regularly, preferably twice a day. You should also floss regularly and use a mouthwash that helps to kill bacteria. Another thing you can do is to eat a healthy diet that is low in sugar and processed carbohydrates. Eating foods rich in calcium, such as milk and cheese, may also help to reduce tartar build-up by strengthening the teeth and gums. Additionally, you can schedule regular dental cleanings with your dentist to remove plaque and prevent further build-up of tartar.

If you are consistent with these habits, you can reduce your risk of tartar build-up and keep your teeth healthy and strong.

What are the best toothpastes for tartar control?

The best toothpastes for tartar control should contain ingredients like pyrophosphates, zinc citrate, or stannous fluoride. These ingredients help to prevent plaque from building up on your teeth and forming tartar. You can also brush more frequently in areas where tartar is more likely to form, like along the gum line and behind your molars.

Conclusion

Tartar build-up can be a pain, both literally and figuratively. It’s important to take steps to prevent it in the first place and also know when you need to see the dentist for tartar removal. By following these tips, you can keep your teeth healthy and free of plaque and tartar buildup!

Share this post:

Prepare Your Child For The Dentist With These Cartoons, Videos and Books

Looking to prepare your child for their first dental visit? At Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, we’re here to help! There are so many resources available to help ease you and your child’s worries of going to the dentist. Below is a complete list of cartoons, videos, and books that our staff has recommended to help you and your child prepare for your first dental visit at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry.

Cartoons & Videos

These cartoons and videos are a fun way for your kids to learn about proper dental hygiene and how to prepare for their dentist appointment.

WHY DO WE BRUSH OUR TEETH:

One of the first things your child needs to understand about going to the dentist is why it’s so important. The video “Why Do We Brush Our Teeth?” explains the importance of dental hygiene. Children must understand why teeth need to be cleaned in order for a trip to the dentist to make sense. This video can also help make establishing a dental hygiene routine at home and daily brushing easier.

FINNY GOES TO THE DENTIST:

In this video, Papa Shark has a toothache but is afraid to go to the dentist. It’s up to little Finny to show him how to be brave. Telling your child the dentist isn’t scary is easy, but demonstrating it to them may be difficult when you face your own fears of the dentist as an adult. Remember that you are the best example your child has and they’re watching everything you do.

DANIEL TIGER VISITS THE DENTIST:

Daniel Tiger visits the dentist for the first time and learns all about the tools, plaque, and how the dentist cleans teeth. At the dentist, Daniel Tiger sings “When we do something new, let’s talk about what we’ll do.” Talking through what will happen at the pediatric dentist will make your child feel more relaxed. He even gets toy tools to use on his stuffed animal to feel more comfortable. This is a method you can use to help your child feel more comfortable before a dental cleaning, too.

PEPPA PIG GOES TO THE DENTIST:

In this episode, Peppa and George are busy brushing their teeth. They have to go to the dentist today for a checkup and Peppa really doesn’t want to go, but they explain how important it is to visit the Dentist. She agrees and they head out. This is a great example for children who may be apprehensive about their first dental visit.

HELLO KITTY & FRIENDS – BRUSH YOUR TEETH:

Younger children (ages 2 – 3 years old) would love this cartoon! Hello Kitty sings why it is important to brush your teeth in a very bubbly way. This would be a great cartoon to play as you teach your child to brush their teeth as well.

VISITING THE DENTIST:

The SciShow Kids do a great job of explaining a dental cleaning step-by-step. This video describes what a dental hygienist is and what they do. It shows photos of each of the tools used to clean teeth and demonstrated how they are used with animated clips. This thorough video should help answer any questions your child may have about visiting the dentist.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE DENTIST:

Instead of a cartoon, this video is provided by an actual pediatric dentist walking through a dental cleaning step-by-step with a patient. The intent of this video was to help children feel more at ease before going to the dentist by knowing exactly what to expect.

A CHILD’S FIRST DENTIST VISIT:

This video is an animation narrated by a tooth who describes what it is like to visit the dentist for the first time. It explains what a dentist is and what they do to make sure your teeth are nice and healthy. A great short video to help describe what happens at the dentist.

VISITING THE DENTIST | BOO BOO SONG:

This is a video for our kids who are Cocomelon fans. This Little Angel Nursery song talks about how not forgetting rot brush and keeping your teeth clean is important. The song walks you through a dental visit and shows you how the dentists are here to help you with the mouth “boo-boo’s” and make you feel better when your teeth or mouth may hurt.

HEALTHY TEETH, HEALTHY ME: BRUSHY BRUSH – SESAME STREET:

You and your family can sing along with Elmo and some of his celebrity friends as he sings a song about the importance of brushing your teeth.


Recommended Books

These books are great resources to help your child alleviate the fears of going to the dentist.  They help them understand that good dental hygiene and regular trips to the dentist will lead to a healthy smile!

  1. PEPPA PIG: DENTIST TRIP
  2. DANIEL GOES TO THE DENTIST (DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD)
  3. THE BERENSTAIN BEARS VISIT THE DENTIST
  4. DORA GOES TO THE DENTIST (DORA THE EXPLORER)
  5. ABC DENTIST: HEALTHY TEETH FROM A TO Z
  6. JUST GOING TO THE DENTIST (LITTLE CRITTER)
  7. BRUSH, BRUSH, BRUSH!
  8. THE TOOTH BOOK (DR. SEUSS)
  9. THE TOOTH BOOK: A GUIDE TO HEALTHY TEETH AND GUMS
  10. READY, SET, BRUSH! (SESAME STREET)
  11. IF YOU DON’T BRUSH YOUR TEETH

At Lane Kids! We’re Here to Help Guide Your Child Towards Great Dental Health

At Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, we are here to help during your child’s smile journey! To learn more about all of our Kids Dentistry services, visit us at www.lanedds.com/lanekids or call us at 877-LANEDDS (526-3337).

Share this post:

It’s Never Too Early to Start Good
Oral Health Habits!

Even the tiniest teeth can show signs of decay and in some cases, your pediatrician may refer you to see a pediatric dentist. At Lane & Associates Family Dentistry, we can help as we now offer pediatric dentistry services.   Dr. Tori Gill, our Pediatric Dentist, has provided her recommendations/habits to practice as you begin your child’s dental health journey.

  • Dr. Tori Gil at Lane and Associates with Good Oral HealthRubbing your child’s gums and wiping your infant’s teeth with a soft cloth or gauze pad can go a long way before they begin with a toothbrush. This should be done after every feeding. Ease the pain of teething with a damp gauze pad or cool teething ring. Healthy gums produce healthy baby teeth! After the first tooth, use a very small amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a single rice grain) and gently brush with a baby toothbrush.
  • Once your child turns three, you can increase the amount of toothpaste to the size of a pea. Encourage your child to spit out the toothpaste after brushing. However, swallowing the appropriate amount is not unsafe for a child. The lower two front teeth are usually the first to erupt; between 6-12 months. Dental visits should start no later than the first birthday with 6-month checkups. All 20 baby teeth should erupt by age 3.
  • A healthy diet & avoiding sugary drinks will help keep your child’s smile bright! Be sure your children are brushing and flossing for two minutes, two times per day! Parents can begin helping with flossing their children’s teeth, especially when any two teeth are touching. For brushing instructions be sure to reference the infographic below.
  • Eruption of permanent teeth typically starts from ages 6 to 7.  Their upper and lower first molars are among the first permanent teeth. Third molars (also known as wisdom teeth) are the last to erupt around the ages of 17 to 21.

Dr. Tori Gill’s
Guide to Your Child’s Dental Health

Take a look at this handy infographic that explains the timeline and steps of your Child’s dental health beginnings. Click on the image below to view a larger version.

A guide to your child's dental health

At Lane Kids! We’re Here to Help
Guide Your Child Towards Great Dental Health

At Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, we are here to help during your child’s smile journey! To learn more about all of our Kids Dentistry services, visit us at www.lanedds.com/lanekids or call us at 877-LANEDDS (526-3337).

Share this post:

novocaine needle

A numbing sensation can be a common side effect of dental procedures. It is caused by the use of anesthesia or novocaine, which numbs the area around the teeth and gums. This sensation can last for a few hours after leaving the dentist, but it will eventually wear off.

Some people may experience longer-term numbness, which could last for a day or two. It is important to keep in mind that everyone experiences numbing sensation differently and the length of time it lasts will vary from person to person.

What Dental Procedures Require Numbing?

When you go to the dentist, there’s a good chance that you’ll need to have some sort of numbing agent administered before any procedures can be done. This is because most dental work involves working in and around your mouth, which can be quite sensitive. Here are a few common dental procedures that require numbing:

Dental Fillings

When you get a cavity, your dentist will need to remove the decay and then fill the hole with a new material. This can be done using a local anesthetic, which numbs the area around the tooth so that you won’t feel anything.

Crowns

A dental crown is used to cover up a damaged or discolored tooth. The procedure involves making an impression of your tooth so that the crown can be made, and then bonding the crown to your tooth. Local anesthesia is often used for this procedure as well.

Root Canals

A root canal is necessary when the nerve of a tooth becomes infected. This can be quite painful, so your dentist will numbing the area before starting the procedure.

Extractions

If you have a tooth that needs to be removed, your dentist will first numb the area around it. This is because extractions can be quite painful, and you’ll likely feel some discomfort even with the numbing agent.

Dental Procedures That May Not Require Numbing

Though most dental procedures will require some sort of numbing agent, there are a few that may not. These include:

Cleanings

Dental cleanings are typically not painful, so they usually don’t require numbing. However, if you have sensitive teeth or gums, your dentist may use a local anesthetic to make sure you’re comfortable during the cleaning.

X-Rays

Dental X-rays are also not typically painful, though some people may feel a bit of discomfort from theX-ray machine. If you’re particularly sensitive, your dentist may use a local anesthetic.

As you can see, there are a variety of dental procedures that may require numbing. This is because most of these procedures involve working in and around your mouth, which can be quite sensitive. If you have a procedure coming up, be sure to ask your dentist if you’ll need to be numb before it starts.

How long does numbing last after you see the dentist?

Numbing typically lasts for a few hours after a dental procedure. However, it can vary depending on the individual and the procedure. If you have any concerns about how long the numbing will last, be sure to speak with your dentist. They can give you specific instructions on how to care for your mouth after the procedure.

Why do people experience different levels of numbness?

There are a few reasons why people experience different levels of numbness. The amount of anesthetic that the dentist uses can play a role, as well as the chemicals of your body. Additionally, your age and health can also affect how numb you feel. In general, younger and healthier people tend to feel less numbness than older or sicker individuals.

So, if you’re wondering why you felt more numbness than your friend during your last dental procedure, it could be due to any number of these factors. The best way to find out for sure is to ask your dentist. They’ll be able to give you more information on the anesthetic they used and how it could have affected your level of numbness.

How to Get rid of the Numbing Sensation in Your Mouth?

holding mouth in pain

If you’re feeling numbness in your mouth, it can be uncomfortable. Here are a few tips for coping until the sensation wears off:

  • Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the numbing agent.
  • Suck on ice chips or a hard candy to stimulate circulation.
  • Gently massage your lips and gums to help increase blood flow.

If the numbness persists for more than a few hours to a day, or if you experience any other unusual symptoms, contact your dentist or doctor.

Can I Eat While My Mouth Is Numb?

While you can eat while your mouth is numb, it’s generally not a good idea. When your mouth is numb, you can’t feel anything, which means you could accidentally bite your tongue, cheek, or lip without realizing it. This could lead to painful injuries once the numbness wears off. Instead, it’s best to wait until the numbness completely goes away before eating. If you’re very hungry and need to eat something, stick to soft foods that don’t require much chewing and be very careful.

Should I Still Feel Pain After Numbing at the Dentist?

You shouldn’t feel pain after receiving a numbing agent at the dentist. The purpose of the numbing agent, like local anesthesia or novocaine, is to block the pain during the procedure. However, you might still feel pressure or movement, which is normal. If you do feel sharp pain or discomfort during the procedure, let your dentist know right away. They may need to apply more anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable.

You may start to feel soreness from the procedure after your numbing agent has fully worn off several hours after the procedure is complete.

Conclusion

Numbing agents are used in a number of dental treatments to make sure you’re comfortable. After a treatment, most people experience some degree of numbness for a few hours. If you experience any unusual symptoms or the numbness persists beyond a day, contact your dentist .

Share this post:

 

man drinking red wine

Red wine is a popular drink that has many health benefits. Some people are concerned that it may also stain their teeth. In this article, we will explore the potential effects of red wine on your teeth, and find out how to protect them from staining.

How can you Tell if Red Wine is Staining your Teeth?

Red wine can stain your teeth a yellowish color. If you are concerned that red wine is staining your teeth, you can ask your dentist to take a look.

Red wine in particular is known to stain teeth. The tannins in wine may cause teeth to become discolor over time. The amount of staining will depend on the type of wine, how often you drink it, and how long you let it sit on your teeth. Some people are more prone to staining than others. If you are concerned about red wine staining your teeth, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk.

What are Some Ways to Protect your Teeth from Staining?

If you are noticing that your teeth are becoming stained by red wine, there are a few things you can do. One is to drink water after drinking wine to help rinse away any remnants. You can also brush your teeth after drinking wine, or use a dental mouthwash. If you already have stained teeth, you may need to see a dentist to have them professionally cleaned. In some cases, red wine can also cause tooth sensitivity. If you are experiencing this, you should see a dentist to find out the best way to treat it.

How Often do you Have to Drink Red Wine for it to Have a Staining Affect?

several glasses of red wine

 

There is no definitive answer to this question as it will depend on a person’s individual dental physiology. However, it is generally accepted that drinking red wine in moderation (one glass per week) is not harmful and may even offer some health benefits. In contrast, drinking a glass of red wine on a regular basis is likely to have a greater staining effect on teeth. Therefore, it is advisable to drink wine in moderation and to brush your teeth afterwards to minimize the staining effect.

How to Whiten Your Teeth After They Have Been Stained by Red Wine?

It is possible to have your teeth whitened after they have been stained by red wine. However, the process may be more difficult than if the staining had not occurred. If you are interested in having your teeth whitened, it is best to consult a professional to see what the best course of action would be. There are a few different ways to whiten teeth, so the method used may depend on the severity of the staining.

One way to remove red wine stains from teeth is to use a bleaching agent. This can either be done at home with over-the-counter products or by visiting a dentist. Some people may experience sensitivity when using bleaching agents, so it is important to follow the directions carefully. If the staining is severe, a dentist may need to perform a professional whitening treatment.

Conclusion

Red wine is a popular drink that has many health benefits, but some people are concerned that it may also stain their teeth. In this article, we have explored the potential effects of red wine on your teeth, and found out how to protect them from staining.

Share this post:

Check Out Lane & Associate’s
Favorite TikToks!

TikTok is sweeping the nation with dental trends, fads, and funnies!  LAA has been watching and we’ve decided to put together a running list of some of our favorite TikTok videos.  Here is List #1 of 5 videos we thoroughly enjoyed!

Have a TikTok video related to dental that you think should make our list? Text or email your video to be mentioned on our next List!

Text or email us a link to your TikTok video!

919-820-1967
marketing@lanedds.com

Share this post:

April hosts a multitude of national awareness efforts, including Oral Cancer Awareness Month and National Facial Protection Month. This blog post is dedicated to Stress Awareness Month & Oral Health. Stress can have a significant impact on your oral health, so it is important to identify where you may be behind in your oral hygiene and try to improve.

Coping with stress ranges from person to person, but the common factor is stress can weaken our immune systems and trigger our brains to cope in unhealthy ways. Our unhealthy habits can cause lasting damage and put your oral health at risk.

4 Signs of Stress on Your Oral Health:

  1. signs of stress on oral healthPoor Oral Hygiene: It’s easy to find yourself slacking on your oral hygiene routine when you’re stressed. You may find yourself brushing only once every day, if at all, or skipping flossing altogether. This of course can lead to plaque buildup, tooth decay, cavities, and potentially tooth loss.
  2. Dry Mouth: Excessive stress can lead to less saliva being produced and you may not be hydrating as you should. Saliva production is necessary to keep our teeth moist, re-mineralize tooth enamel, and fight bacteria. Having dry mouth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
  3. Teeth Grinding: I’m sure we all know someone who grinds their teeth due to anxiety or stress or maybe in their sleep. This is also known as bruxism. It can cause wear and tear on your teeth to the point you may chip or maybe even lose your teeth. Bruxism can also lead to tooth sensitivity or even headaches.
  4. Clenched Jaw: When you experience constant muscle tension in your jaw from chronic stress, it can cause temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). TMJ causes pain in your jaw and around your ears and may lead to difficulty opening your mouth or chewing.

If you’re enduring high levels of stress, it’s super important to keep up with your bi-annual dental visits so that we can help to monitor and manage any impacts stress is having on your oral health.

If you can remove the source of stress from your life, that’s the best way to fend off its negative effects of it. However, if that’s not entirely possible, then turning to healthy habits like yoga, meditation, journaling or exercising can help to reduce tension.

Of course, we are always here and can recommend specific treatment based on what we see during an oral health evaluation!

Share this post: