As we stated in “A Year of Stress Leads to Broken Teeth,” 2020 was a very stressful and challenging year for all. As people worried about their family, health, financial future, work challenges and home schooling, the uncertainty caused both physical and mental strain. One way many people unconsciously cope with stress is by grinding or clenching (bruxism) their teeth. As stated in our previous article, the ADA has “seen throughout the country a 50 percent increase in symptoms related to stress [which] include cracked teeth, fractured teeth, and excessive clenching and grinding, otherwise known as bruxism”2
Grinding/clenching are not the only causes of cracked teeth. Large fillings, trauma, lost teeth, dental work, sonicare toothbrushes, alcohol mouthwash and temperature changes can also lead to cracked or broken teeth. When you experience cracks in your teeth, leakage of harmful bacteria and acids can spread to bones around your teeth, in turn, you may experience recession of gums and bone loss. These cracks can leak this dangerous bacteria into your bloodstream which can increase your risk for cancer, stroke, heart attack, diabetes, respiratory issues, vision issues, beginning stages of Alzheimers and memory loss.3
It is important that you schedule an appointment at the first sign of any cracks. Your dentist will examine you and determine if you need a root canal or if the tooth needs to be replaced. If you find yourself with a cracked/broken tooth you may need to remove and replace the tooth with a crown or dental implant.4
If you are interested in dental implant surgery, please call 888.257.4025 to set up a consultation with Dr. Young. He has several office locations he works out of throughout Southeast Michigan.
References
1. “6 ways stress affects your teeth and how to avoid it during quarantine”. Available online on 16 November 2020. Website: https://www.guardiandirect.com/resources/articles/6-ways-stress-affects-your-teeth-and-how-avoid-it-during-quarantine
2. Reilley, Sabrina. Western Mass News. “Dentists report uptick in cracked teeth due to increased stress” 12 November 2020. Available online on 16 November 2020. Website: https://www.westernmassnews.com/news/dentists-report-uptick-in-cracked-teeth-due-to-increased-stress/article_2f368cc6-249a-11eb-9b56-2b57ab268cd6.html
3. Kravitz, Joe, DDS. Dental Implants. “WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO REPAIR OR REPLACE CRACKED TEETH? Available online on 7 May 2021. Website: https://www.dentalimplants.us/procedure/603/dentist-who-can-treat-repair-or-replace-cracked-teeth
4. “Year of Stress Leads to Broken Teeth”. Advanced Dental Implant Services. Available online on 7 May 2021. Website: https://advanceddentalimplantservices.com/year-of-stress-leads-to-broken-teeth/
