Believe it or not, our team is busier than ever despite the outbreak of COVID-19, but unfortunately, we are seeing an increase in cracked teeth. This is not a coincidence, and there are dentists across the country who are experiencing similar patterns.
There are two main factors contributing to the uptick in cracked teeth at our West Loop dentist.
Slouching While Working from Home
As an unprecedented number of Americans continue to work from home, they may not have the same desk setup that they had in the office. More people are working from couches, beds, chairs, or random nooks in their kitchen where they may be hunched over, curving their spine.
So, what does this have to do with our West Loop or Bloomingdale dental office? The nerves in the back and the neck lead to the temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. Working remotely can lead to teeth grinding during the night, resulting in cracks or chips.
Lack of Restorative Sleep
Another reason we are seeing an increase in cracked teeth is the fact that restorative sleep for many is lacking right now. Restlessness and overall insomnia can trigger your body’s flight or fight response and lead you to clench your jaw, ultimately leading to an unexpected crack.
Overcoming These Issues
Make sure to set up a proper work-from-home station at home if you will be working remotely for the foreseeable future. If you feel yourself slouching, take a 5- or 10-minute break from working, stand up and walk around.
Consider a protective nightguard if you grind your teeth at night. You can also try taking a bath and soaking in Epsom salt for an extra relaxation technique. Your body needs rest to get through each day.
Contact Pure Dental Spa for More Information
If you suddenly crack a tooth or you notice that you aren’t sleeping as well as you once did, please reach out to our dentist in West Loop and Bloomingdale to see how we can help. Rest assured that we are taking all of the necessary precautions to keep our patients and staff safe during this time.