Stress and How It Finds Its Way Into Dentistry
Seldom has a day gone by when I don’t have to simply be a . Yes, the p came to have a procedure for this or that but first and foremost, there is a need for the human touch. be fully present to the person, in the moment and share in their humanity. When a patient says, “I’m stressed”, I stop, hold their hand and say it’s ok. You are safe here, right now. Now, let’s together take some deep breaths. Get them up from the belly, way down deep. Now breathe deep and slow. Close your eyes and know you are safe. Let the tension melt away.
o watch the change of in the person, in just a few minutes, brings sharp focus the power we have individually influence the lives of those whom we come in contact with. The shift of energy from being to ne who has become centered and calm is palpable. You can read between the worry lines showing up on the forehead or between the eyebrows. The telltale signs of stress. have observed the power of focus breath work change someone, myself included.
Stress, It’s Everywhere
ow is this important in dentistry? Well, one of the greatest causes of tooth damage is stress
that manifests in the form of gnashing and wailing, or more recently, clenching and grinding of the teeth. This shows up as fractures of the teeth, bone loss around the teeth, bone growth around the teeth, nerve death from cutting off the blood supply to the teeth. Most of the time the fix is expensive after the fact. Before the fact, if signs and symptoms surface, one would be well served by marching out to the drug store and trying an over the counter bite guard. If this is successful, you have a self-help tool that can be not only a tooth saver but a life saver. If you cannot find one the works over the counter, have one made professionally. I will be some of the best money spent on yourself you use the device.
Stress Management
some form of stress management his can include, yoga or meditation or periodic quieting oneself and doing some deep breathing for just a few minutes. This can work wonders.
The Mantra
…Lips together, teeth apart, from this rule, I won’t depart.
