Stress Relief Tips from Your Chandler Dentist

Last week, we discussed the resounding effects of stress on your oral health. Issues like canker sores, bruxism, TMJ disorder, and poor oral hygiene can all result from elevated stress levels. This week, we continue our focus on oral health and stress by offering you a few everyday tips for stress relief. Take a few moments to review these stress-reducing techniques, brought to you by Chandler dentist Dr. Mark Arooni.

Relieve Stress, Improve Oral Health

• Work out—One of the most effective methods of relieving pent up stress and frustration is to exercise. Vigorous physical activity can help you burn energy and take your mind off of stressful situations. Luckily, you don’t have to be an Olympian to effectively relieve stress through exercise; virtually any physical activity can work. Take a long walk through a beautiful neighborhood, or spend a few hours gardening.
• Take a quick vacation—No, we do not advise that you get up and leave the city every time you feel stressed. However, you can take a moment to close your eyes and envision some place peaceful and quiet. Taking a small mental vacation can remove your thoughts from the current situation, allowing you to clear your head and think.
• Separate yourself—If a mental vacation doesn’t work, then try physically removing yourself from the room or area. Sometimes, a moment of separation is all you need to gather yourself and handle a stressful situation effectively, without losing your cool.
• Fake a smile—If you’re stressed, then chances are that you don’t feel much like smiling. Forcing one anyway, however, can be more useful than you may think. Studies have shown that the simple act of smiling, whether genuine or not, can cause a release of your natural feel-god chemicals, such as endorphins. Smiling also tends to spread to others around you, creating a lighter and less-stressful environment.

Seek Professional Help

If stress, anxiety, depression, and/or a related issue are inhibiting your oral health, then speak with your physician about seeking help with your condition. To learn more about protecting your oral health from stress, schedule an appointment with Dr. Arooni by calling our Chandler dental office at 480-855-1200. Located in the 85224 area, Lakeview Dental Care proudly serves patients from Chandler, Gilbert, Ahwatukee, Mesa, Tempe, Phoenix, and all surrounding communities.

By Mark Arooni DDS