Stress symptoms may be affecting your health, even though you might not realize it. You may think illness is to blame for that annoying headache, your frequent insomnia or your decreased productivity at work. But stress may actually be the culprit.

The coronavirus pandemic has brought on additional stressors to many lives, and the consequences show up in our mind, body, and spirit. As a periodontist, I am seeing more patients suffering from teeth grinding, jaw pain, and broken teeth. I’m not alone. According to the American Dental Association -70 percent of dentists report an uptick in patients revealing they are grinding and clenching their teeth in their sleep and when they are awake. The consensus of opinion among my colleagues is that surges in stress are taking a toll on teeth, which can lead to a myriad of other health problems.

What’s more, 62 percent of patients are found to be enduring an agonizing condition known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Headaches and jaw pain are common manifestations of TMJ. The survey also found a 26% increase in cavities and an almost 30% increase in periodontal disease.

So as you can see it is dangerous to unload your stress and anxiety onto your teeth. This disorder, left untreated, can lead to costly tooth extractions, crowns, and possibly even surgeries in the future.

The Orasana Stress and TMJ Program is a multi-faceted and scientifically designed treatment plan I recommend for helping repair the injured connective tissue and joints associated with teeth grinding and clenching but It also decreases pain and inflammation naturally.

Included in this treatment plan is Orasana® Enzyme Support, which contains bromelain, an anti-inflammatory agent. Bromelain has fewer side effects than drugs such as ibuprofen. This program also includes a highly concentrated essential fatty acid blend, providing an extremely effective combination of EPA, DHA, GLA, and borage seed oil--- a nutritional supplement rich in essential fatty acids. This can regulate skin and joint inflammation and support the body's immune system. The curcumin is an excellent source of antioxidant capacity, which enables a healthy response to stress and depression, and also inhibits inflammation.

In addition to addressing your TMJ with the Orasana TMJ supplements, there are simple lifestyle changes you can implement which will help:

• Place a mouth guard over your teeth during your sleep
• Before you go to bed try this exercise routine and other tips

• Be mindful - if you find your jaw tightening up throughout the day when you are challenged by a stressful situation, relax your face and give your jaw muscles a quick massage.

Visit your local dentist to properly diagnose your teeth grinding issues before embarking on any recovery strategy, but prompt action is necessary to preserve your teeth.