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Even though it is the most joyous time of the year, holiday stress can bring even the most optimistic person down. Being in a funk can cause damage to your basic health, including your dental health.  Your Mansfield dentists, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris, offer these tips to brightening the holidays – and your smile.

Exercise

Studies have shown that getting out and moving your body has a very healthy effect on mood and outlook. For those averse to going to the gym, a brisk walk about the neighborhood will work just fine. Being out in the sun and fresh air will perk just about anyone’s day up. When you have that burst of energy, it may also encourage you to take care of other elements of your health, such as brushing and flossing more frequently, and making that appointment for a dental checkup that’s overdue.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Also effective, though in the opposite way, is taking a nap. As anyone who has ever spent time around a young child can attest to, tiredness leads to crankiness. Taking a relaxing twenty-minute nap can not only improve your mood, but your energy and alertness level as well. Sleep is harder to come by if you struggle with excessive snoring or obstructive sleep apnea. Many dentists, including Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris, can help with these problems, so don’t hesitate to arrange a consultation.

Eat More Omega-3s

Foods rich in omega-3s are also good ways to lift your spirits. Studies show that the fatty acid serves as a natural antidepressant. Delicious fish such as salmon, halibut, and tuna will provide plenty of this healthy supplement. It is also abundant in walnuts and pumpkin seeds. Certain oils available for cooking also contain it. Of course, once you finish eating these wonderful foods, be sure to brush and floss. Tooth decay is likely to ruin anyone’s mood.

Smile More and Visit Your Mansfield Dentists

Of course, you’ll want to show off those beautiful, healthy teeth. So the final way to improve your mood is to smile. Smiling is contagious, as are the good feelings a genuine smile can spread. Even if there is no one around, deliberately smiling has been shown to be a pick-me-up.

If you want to make sure your smile is as healthy as it can be this holiday season, contact Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris at our 76063 dentist office by calling (817) 259-1357 to schedule an appointment today. We proudly serve patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian, and surrounding communities.