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Why Are Cracked Teeth on the Rise During the COVID-19 Pandemic?

December 12, 2020

Filed under: Uncategorized — crovatto @ 6:14 pm
woman hides her cracked teeth during COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses, companies, and entire industries have struggled to stay afloat. However, it seems that dental practices are busier than ever! Dentists all over the world are reporting that they’ve been treating an increasing number of cracked teeth and other oral health issues since the beginning of the pandemic. So how is the COVID-19 pandemic causing so many people to damage their teeth? Read on as your Orange Park dentist reveals the top three reasons why cracked teeth are on the rise during quarantine and what you can do to keep your smile safe.

The Body’s Natural Stress Response

There is certainly no shortage of things to worry about during the COVID-19 pandemic. Worrying and feeling stressed out initiates a type of “fight or flight” response, which causes all your muscles to tense up. This tension can lead to bad chewing habits, such as chewing on hard objects like ice, pen caps, or your fingernails. Unresolved stress can also trigger bruxism, which is a condition where you grind your teeth in your sleep.

Both issues place recurring extra pressure on your teeth, which wears away the enamel. Over time, this can easily lead to a serious crack or fracture. To protect your pearly whites, consider chewing sugarless gum and being intentional about taking time to relax. Be sure to consult loved ones, your healthcare provider, or resources from the CDC for extra support.

Working from Home Posture

Many people have started working from home, often in environments that aren’t specifically set up to be an office. Working on the couch, on the kitchen table, or somewhere else unconventional isn’t typically conducive to proper, healthy sitting posture. Slouching or bending over your work stresses the muscles in the neck and jaw, which can lead to grinding your teeth in your sleep. This is a condition called bruxism, and it’s usually accompanied by morning headaches, jaw soreness, and tooth sensitivity.

To combat bruxism, talk to your dentist about getting a custom nightguard. If you can, try rearranging your working space so that your posture is better, and make a conscious effort to monitor your posture throughout the day. It’s also a good idea to get up and move around periodically to stretch out your muscles and encourage them to relax.

Stress-Eating and Snacking Aimlessly

Along with nearly every other aspect of our day-to-day lives, the COVID-19 pandemic has altered many of our eating habits. Are you stress-eating comfort foods, or snacking aimlessly while you’re bored at home? Overindulging in sugary, sticky, acidic, or hard foods dramatically weakens your teeth and leaves them vulnerable to both damage and decay. To lower your risk of cavities and cracked teeth, stock your house with healthy snacks, and keep unhealthy choices put away and out of sight. Drink lots of water and make sure you’re using fluoridated dental products.

It’s completely natural to feel anxious during these uncertain times. However, don’t let that stress ruin your smile! Prevent cracked teeth in quarantine by relaxing and visiting your dentist for the dental care you need.

About the Practice

At Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry, nothing is more important than your health and safety. We’ve implemented a wide variety of extra COVID-19 precautions that are designed to safeguard the wellbeing of our patients, staff, and the entire community of Orange Park. If you have a dental emergency like a cracked tooth, don’t hesitate to call us, and we’ll see you as soon as possible. Rest assured that we will go above and beyond to keep you and your smile healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic. To learn more about our Commitment to Safety or schedule your next appointment, we can be contacted via our website or at (904) 272-0800.

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