Economic stress can take a real bite out of your oral health. Tooth grinding is on the rise among Wall Street executives, according to Dr. Ramin Tabib, a New York-based cosmetic and reconstructive dentist who counts many CEOs among his patients.
“The condition, also known as bruxism, has become particularly widespread among my clients in the wake of the recent downturn in the economy,” said Dr. Tabib. “Prior to the economic slowdown we had five to 10 cases a month and the number has been steadily climbing to about 15 a month over the past year,” he added.
Many executives are neglecting their emotional needs during the day and are relieving built-up stress through tooth clenching during the day and tooth grinding at night.
Bruxism may be mild and may not even require treatment. However, it can be frequent and severe enough to lead to damaged teeth, jaw disorder, headaches, and other problems.
Dr. Tabib, a faculty member of NYU College of Dentistry and a partner in NYC Smile Design, recommends treatment of the condition with dental procedures, mouth guards and stress counseling.
