These days I'm seeing more and more signs of stress in my Manalapan New Jersey patients. You know the kind of thing I mean – cracked and worn down teeth from grinding and clenching, exposed roots from brushing too hard, and bleeding gums. Many people believe that poor oral hygiene is the only way to get gum disease, but stress and diet can both be triggers, especially if you're genetically pre-disposed. If you are, you may be six times more likely to develop gum disease than your neighbor!

Here are some lifestyle strategies that can help improve your oral and overall health…
Drink green tea. Kyushu University researchers say that routine intake may also help promote healthy teeth and gums, possibly by interfering with the body's inflammatory response to oral bacteria.
Meditate daily. Researchers at Charles Drew University and the University of Hawaii found that Transcendental Meditation reduced depressive symptoms an average of 48% in clinically depressed participants.
Drink lots of water. Loma Linda University researchers found that drinking five or more 8-ounce glasses of water a day could help lower your risk of heart disease by up to 60%, the same as exercise, diet, and not smoking.
Smile more. Researchers at Harvard and the Mayo Clinic found that optimists live longer healthier lives, and numerous studies show that smiling can positively affect your body like true happiness.
Get regular dental care. It's a proven way to eliminate stress about your oral health. To make an appointment contact Dr. Courey at 732-577-0555 or visit http://www.buildinggreatsmiles.com.