Many individuals have endured long-term stress after a year of restrictions and anxiety related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Habits developed under this stress may be affecting your oral health. If you notice your smile has lost its shine, cosmetic dental treatment could help you restore its luster. Dr. Ira Goldberg, a dentist in Succasunna, NJ, identifies stress habits that may leave your teeth in need of cosmetic dentistry services.
Beverages that stain
Pandemic stress can affect your sleeping habits. Stressed patients can experience less sleep or a lower quality of sleep. This can leave patients groggy and drowsy during the day and seeking a boost from caffeinated drinks in response. Dark-colored beverages, like coffee or tea, can contain tannins that absorb into tooth enamel and stain your teeth.
Lighter-colored brews or adding milk to your drink can lessen the chance of this happening. To preserve your teeth, these beverages should be avoided or enjoyed in moderation. Professional teeth whitening treatment can reverse the effects of these staining agents.
Teeth grinding
Stress is also linked to a habit called bruxism, which is teeth grinding or clenching. The pressure of the top and bottom teeth grating against each other can leave you with a sore jaw. It can also harm your teeth. If you have chipped, cracked, or broken teeth from this behavior, you may require restorative dental work. Mild damage can be fixed with cosmetic tooth bonding, in which resin fills cracks, chips, and gaps in your teeth. Teeth grinding can occur while a patient is asleep, so your dentist may recommend wearing a mouthguard overnight to protect your teeth from further damage.
Skipped dental appointments
Pandemic restrictions and mayhem may lead to many patients skipping their routine medical appointments. Your regular dental visit features important oral hygiene practices that could be affecting the appearance of your teeth. During a routine cleaning, your dentist cleans plaque and tartar from your teeth to avoid problems like tooth decay or gum disease. Your dentist can also provide fluoride treatment during these visits to strengthen tooth enamel, allowing the surface of your teeth to better retain their healthy appearance. Dentists recommend scheduling routine cleanings every six months.
Cosmetic dentistry available in Succasunna, NJ
Morris County Dental Associates provides cosmetic dentistry services to patients in Succasunna, NJ. Dr. Goldberg also specializes in general, restorative, and implant dentistry. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 973.298.5893.