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Is Your Nervous Habit Ruining Your Smile? Marietta, GA

Is Your Nervous Habit Ruining Your Smile?

We all get nervous or anxious from time to time. It is very common for people to engage in a certain habit when they feel stressed. This could range from rapidly tapping your foot on the floor while you are waiting for a job interview to twirling a piece of your hair while taking a test. However, there are a number of stress-induced habits that involve our mouths – many of which can wreak havoc on your teeth over a prolonged period of time. When you feel nervous, do you tend to participate in the following?

• Ice Chomping
Teeth Grinding or Clenching
• Pencil/Pen Chewing
• Nail Biting

In an article titled “Oral Habits: Why They Exist and How to Eliminate Them,” Sara Rosenfeld-Johnson, M.S., CCC-SLP comments that “environmental or external stress is normal and processed differently in each person. Some feel tension in their shoulders, stomachs, or get frequent headaches; while others may exhibit tension in the oral musculature and TMJ.” Research confirms that certain individuals rely on oral habits during times of stress or anxiety, which be a nearly subconscious action. Unfortunately, these habits can greatly threaten your dental health, especially if they begin at a young age.

The above-mentioned habits can damage the enamel layer of your teeth or cause your teeth to wear down. This can expose your teeth to decay, sensitivity and other problems. In addition, it can change the way your teeth fit together, which disrupts your bite and puts more strain on the TMJ. Grinding and clenching are known for producing painful and disruptive problems such as jaw pain and tension headaches.

If you believe your stress response habit is causing harm to your smile, please come see us at Gilreath Family Dentistry. We offer a number of treatments to restore your teeth from bad dental habits. First and foremost, try to seek other ways to calm your nerves.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Paul Gilreath IV, Gilreath Family Dentistry Marietta

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Please call us at (770) 796-7081.

Our Client Reviews
Gilreath Family Dentistry

Sarah Khatib

Dr. Daniel Lee is the best dentist I've seen. She's so considerate of your fear of the dentist and was so painless although multiple procedures were done at the same time to save me a visit. Will definitely be coming here for years to come Il!

Susan

Dr. Gilreath is incredible with my kids. They love going to the dentist now! And this busy mom loves the warm neck wraps, the soft music and enjoying a latte while I relax!

Kenneth H.

Was lucky enough to find these guys when I got insurance that my old dentist did not take. Very professional and friendly staff! Office has the latest greatest technology as well. If you're looking for a new dentist, search no further!

Susie L.

Very personable and friendly, they took the time to go over my complex dental history and did not pressure me into anything. They gave their recommendations and priced out any options I had. Great group!

Camille Y.

Dr. Gilreath and his staff are top notch. I received the best cleaning I've ever had while watching my favorite show. The Doctor and his staff were all very polite, friendly, and courteous. They explained everything to me clearly and presented me with options in a gentle way that didn't make me feel pressured at all. It's obvious they really care about the wellbeing of their patients. The facility and equipment is really nice as well. I will definitely be back!

Juan R.

Always willing to work around my kids and my schedules. Today I had a long appointment. They started on time and always made sure I was comfortable and that the pain was managed so the procedure could’ve been completed without issues. Very courteous and professional staff.

Lucia B.

Awesome dental practice! The staff is friendly and efficient. Dr. Gilreath is thorough and versed in the latest technology and procedures. I love that he can make crowns in the office while you wait (so no walking around with a temporary crown for days or weeks). I would strongly recommend this dental practice!

Matthew W.

I've been going here for about a little over a year now. I've had a few cleanings, a filling, and started Invisiline so far. Hands down, the best run dental office I've ever been to. In the past at other dental offices I often had to wait 30 or more minutes beyond my appointment time before being seen. At Dr. Gilreath's office I've been seen on time every time. They seem to have systems in place to make every part of your visit run smoothly. From how they took x-rays, to billing and appointments, to the work done by the hygienist/dentist, everything seems to run like a well oiled machine. On top of that all the staff are all friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. The office space itself is also quite nice. Very clean, well maintained, and seems very "up to date" with their equipment. If you're looking for a dentist and are anywhere in the northwest metro area I would highly recommend Dr. Gilreath.

Our Office

Gilreath Family Dentistry

200 White St NW
Marietta, GA 30060

Call to Schedule an Appointment:
(770) 796-7081

Gilreath Family Dentistry Marietta waiting room Marietta GA.