For most people, the holiday season is a busy time full of many activities and celebrations. But all the holiday cheer and fun can be stressful, leading to oral health problems like bruxism caused by stress. While a bit of holiday stress is entirely normal, the effects of stress on your oral health can be harmful in many ways. Signs and symptoms that indicate you could be suffering from stress-induced bruxism include:

• Clenching of teeth during sleep
• Headache in the temporal region
• Sores caused by chewing or biting the inner cheek
• Face pain originating in the jawline
• Teth enamel wear
• An earache-like ache

Still unsure whether you are a bruxer? Here are additional red flags:

Sleep disturbances:

Bruxism, or the unconscious grinding and clenching of the teeth while sleeping, is one of the most common sleep disturbances that often goes unrecognized until someone finds themselves highly exhausted. Unfortunately, many people will suffer from this imbalance between body and mind for a long time before they get help for their exhaustion.

Damaged teeth and jaw pain:

With up to 250 pounds of force, sleep bruxism can be a nightmare for sufferers. Involuntary jaw clenching overnight can create extreme pain and lead to significant tooth wear over time, from sensitivity to chipped, cracked teeth requiring restorative treatments. Make sure you're getting enough shut-eye—your teeth depend on it! (If all else fails, a custom-made nightguard from Dental Guard Labs is available)

• Taking a moment to remind yourself of all the things in your life you're thankful for can be an uplifting experience, even during tough times. Focusing on gratitude helps us cultivate hope, resilience, and joy - three essential ingredients to chart our course through unpredictable circumstances.
• The holidays are a time for merriment, but it's essential to factor in some "self-care" during the festivities. Taking breaks throughout your busy season helps prevent burnout and allows you to come back energized when January rolls around! Permit yourself to slow down; recharging is essential to living your best life.
• Make the holiday season more meaningful by spreading acts of kindness! Give back to those in need and bring joy into someone's life. You can help at a local food pantry, donate new toys, or show your generosity with a warm coat donation - think how much brighter one small act would light up their world this time of year!
• Bring on the cheer and visit festive fun with a holiday-themed game night! Gather your family and friends for budget-friendly entertainment - pull out those board games because it's time to get competitive. Let the good times roll this season of giving.
• Want to add a little festive cheer to your life? Join a caroling group! Embrace the chance to break out of your comfort zones – you never know how much fun you may have. So, why not take the plunge and see what a fantastic experience awaits when we step into song with new friends this holiday season?
• This holiday season, don't get caught in the mayhem. Dismiss worries and let Dental Guard Labs have your teeth covered with a personalized night guard––giving you one less problem to mull over!