What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is a condition in which you clench and/or grind your teeth. The pressure exerted from these actions leads to tooth damage.The enamel wears away and your teeth may experience fractures. Your gums can recede. Teeth can become loose and fall out. Your temporomandibular joint (the joint at which your upper and lower jaws meet) becomes inflamed. Reducing your stress can help to prevent bruxism. One way to do this is through the foods you eat.
What Foods Reduce Stress?
There are several foods with stress reducing properties:| • | Berries, which are rich in vitamin C, proven to help combat stress. |
| • | Nuts. Nuts are high in zinc (a single serving of cashews has 11% of your recommended daily allowance). Even low levels of zinc have been linked to a reduction of stress and depression. |
| • | Chamomile. Often used as a tea, chamomile has been proven to significantly lower stress levels in many people. |
| • | Beef, specifically grass-fed. Grass fed beef lacks the hormones, antibiotics and other drugs often administered to animals being raised for food. It contains several antioxidants and is also high in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are important for the production of dopamine, which lowers stress levels. |
| • | Dark chocolate. Dark chocolate contains polyphenols and flavanols, and is known to reduce blood pressure. Just make sure you eat chocolate in moderation. |
Other Stress Reduction Techniques
Along with foods, there are other things you can do to reduce your stress:| • | Relaxation techniques - deep breathing, meditation. |
| • | Exercise - yoga, running, cycling, lifting weights. |
| • | Do something you enjoy. |
If stress is harming your teeth, be sure to contact our office today.
