The Midwest is a wonderful place to live and raise a family, and Lincoln, NE, is certainly no exception. With its comfortable climate and focus on community, it’s not surprising that this small city continues to grow and thrive.
But during the spring, the threat of severe storms and tornadoes is real, and that can be stressful.
So, when storm season hits, how can weather anxiety affect your teeth?
How Weather Anxiety Affects Your Oral Health
Weather anxiety is a real phenomenon, and this physical response to thunderstorms and tornadoes can lead to several dental concerns, including the following:
- Bruxism — Uncertain weather conditions could cause you to unconsciously grind your teeth. This can lead to worn enamel, broken teeth, or sensitivity.
- Jaw tension — When a stressful situation causes you to clench your jaw, it can cause tension and lead to TMJ issues. Trouble with your temporomandibular joint can cause soreness, headaches, and other problems.
- Dry mouth — When you’re stressed about the weather, it can reduce saliva production. A dry mouth can make you more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease.
- Canker sores — Anxiety and stress about spring storms can trigger mouth sores, making eating and hygiene uncomfortable.
What You Can Do
If you’re experiencing symptoms, there are some things you can do to protect your smile, such as:
- Call our dental office to ask about a custom mouthguard or nightguard to protect your teeth.
- Practice relaxation exercises or deep breathing to keep yourself calm when the weather gets nasty.
- Drink plenty of water and practice good oral hygiene to avoid dry mouth and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Perform jaw stretching exercises to reduce undue tension and alleviate the discomfort associated with clenching and grinding your teeth.
Oral Health Questions in Lincoln, NE?
If you have questions about your teeth and gums, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our two convenient locations! At Antelope Creek Family Dentistry, we offer comfortable, efficient care to patients of all ages.
You can reach our Normal Blvd. dental office at (402) 486-1200 or our 40th St. dental office at (402) 488-6716.
We look forward to your call!