In the midst of these tense times, where Americans are facing a collective health crisis unlike any other experienced in the last 100 years, it’s understandable for anxiety and stress levels to be high. As a result, you may feel tempted to initiate some habits that aren’t conducive to excellent oral health. As you continue reading, a dentist in Marion lists what activities to avoid to prevent a dental emergency during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Tobacco Usage
One of the reasons that smoking or chewing tobacco is so popular is that the products contain nicotine, a highly addictive and calming toxin. In addition to contributing to a host of health problems like lung and throat cancer, hypertension and heart disease, tobacco usage can wreak havoc on your oral health. Additionally, it can cause deep teeth stains and result in accelerated plaque growth, which is the main contributor to tooth decay and gum disease.
A healthier alternative is to use the extra time you have at home to take-up a new hobby. Not only will it get the creative juices flowing, but it will also serve as a much better way to alleviate stress.
Gnawing on Your Fingernails
When you’re feeling a little stressed, are you prone to biting your fingernails? If so, as harmless as it may seem, you could soon find yourself dealing with a dental emergency. That’s because the texture of your fingernails is too hard for the enamel that covers your teeth. Thus, biting them could lead to a sudden crack or break.
Consider these safer ways of managing your stress and anxiety:
- Reading
- Meditation
- Yoga exercises
- Listening to music that makes you feel happy
- Watching one of your favorite stand-up comedians perform
Constant Grazing
While you’re sheltering in place, you may have a desire to continuously eat. Although the hunger pangs may seem real, many times they’re more psychological than actual indicators of a need to eat. Giving in to these cravings means that your teeth and gums don’t get much of a break, and the leftover particles that constantly bathe them can accelerate any decay and trigger an acute toothache.
Many times, hunger sensations are truly indicators of dehydration. So make it a habit to drink water before you eat. It also helps to step-up your protein intake. Not only will it satiate your hunger longer, but it will also help to stabilize your blood glucose (sugar) levels. This is important because balanced glucose means less cravings and better overall health.
As the old saying goes, “Knowing is half the battle.” The next step is to simply implement what you’ve learned so that you can stay as far away from dental emergencies as possible!
About the Author
For over 30 years, patients have trusted Dr. James Leon to provide comprehensive and highly effective care. Throughout his career, the West Virginia University graduate has remained eager to expand his knowledge; thus, he has received advanced postgraduate training from the Frank Spear Institute, Pete Dawson Academy and Ross Nash Teaching Academy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Leon is available to treat dental emergencies at Cross Creek Dental Care, and he can be reached for more information through his website.