The spread of COVID-19 has caused stress on everyone, whether you know it or not. The constant worry of being affected, spreading the virus to others, and the financial uncertainty that comes with it can lead to a lot of anxiety. While you’re quarantined, you may turn to some unhealthy habits to cope with your stress. However, nail biting, smoking, and constant snacking can lead to a variety of dental issues. Keep reading to learn more about how these bad habits can affect you as well as some alternative ways you can reduce stress from your dentist in McKinney.
Nail Biting
You may turn toward this activity when you’re anxious or bored. However, nail biting is not only a nasty and unsightly habit that’s bad for your hands, but it can also damage your smile. Biting on your nails can lead to chipped and cracked enamel, causing sensitivity as well as higher risks of additional dental injury.
Tobacco Use
Tobacco has been used for hundreds of years to “take the edge off,” and many people are on edge due to the spread of COVID-19. Smoking and tobacco use can raise your risk of different types of cancer, but this bad habit can also hurt your smile. Cigarettes stain your teeth, cause yellowing, and they make it harder for your gum tissue to heal after it’s been damaged.
Constant Snacking
Another habit you may pick up during quarantine is constant snacking. Consistent grazing will not only increase your chances of obesity and the problems that come with it, but this food intake also hurts your teeth. When you constantly snack, you’re not giving your mouth the breaks it needs to wash away bacteria and food debris with saliva. This can increase your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and infection.
How to Manage Your Stress
While it’s easy to turn to some of the addictive habits above, you can try to substitute these activities instead:
Exercise
Self-isolating doesn’t mean that you can’t go outside! Go for a run, a walk, a bike ride, or other solo physical activities. Exercise is amazing for the body, but it also helps relieve stress and anxiety. Even just getting out of the house every once in a while to go to your local park or for a drive will help you feel calmer.
Meditation
Meditating can also really help when feeling stressed. Find a comfortable place and meditate or even do yoga to work in some exercise. This will help get your mind off of the anxieties facing the world as well as the bad habits you want to use to cope.
During this uncertain time, there’s no need to add more stress to the equation with dental problems caused by bad habits. Remember this useful information and use these tips to manage your anxiety while protecting your smile!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Julie Kim is a highly trained dentist who wants her patients to know the dangers of some of the coping mechanisms that come with stress. If you have any questions, or if you’re experiencing a dental emergency, she can be reached through her website and by phone at (972) 547-0066.