After a year of restrictions and isolation due to the global pandemic, many individuals are more stressed than usual. Habits can form during periods of high stress, and these can be detrimental to your oral health. If you notice your smile has lost its luster, you may benefit from cosmetic dental treatment. Dr. Ken Schweifler, a dentist in Los Altos, CA, describes stress habits that can harm your teeth and require cosmetic dentistry services.
Beverages that stain
Stress can disrupt sleep patterns, leaving patients with less sleep or a lower quality night of sleep. If patients wake up feeling groggy or drowsy, they may seek an energy boost from caffeinated beverages such as tea or coffee. Dark-colored beverages like these contain tannins that can be absorbed by teeth enamel and leave teeth discolored, yellowed, or stained. These drinks should be avoided or enjoyed in moderation to maintain your ideal teeth color. Dental patients with tooth discoloration can benefit from professional teeth whitening treatments.
Teeth grinding
Stress can lead to the habit of teeth clenching and grinding, often referred to as bruxism. The pressure of the top and bottom teeth grating against each other can leave you with a sore jaw. This behavior may also harm your teeth. If you have chipped, cracked, or broken teeth due to bruxism, you may require restorative dental work.
Your dentist can resolve mild damage with cosmetic teeth bonding. This process involves dentists filling cracks, gaps, or chips in teeth with resin to enhance your smile. Teeth grinding often occurs while a patient is asleep, so your dentist may recommend wearing a mouthguard overnight to protect your teeth from this behavior as you sleep.
Skipping dental cleaning
Many patients have been skipping routine medical appointments with pandemic restrictions in place and the chaos that comes with them. Regular dental visits include a thorough cleaning, which can affect the appearance of your teeth. During these appointments, your dentist clears plaque and tartar from your teeth that were missed by traditional brushing. If left untreated, they can lead to tooth decay or gum disease, which can leave your teeth exposed to cosmetic deterioration. A clean and healthy mouth provides a stable environment to keep your teeth looking their best.
Cosmetic dentistry available in Los Altos, CA
Dr. Schweifler offers cosmetic dentistry treatments to patients in Los Altos, CA. Our practice also specializes in general and restorative dental services for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment or consultation with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 650.489.4620.