The holiday season is filled with celebration, fun, and family time — but it can also bring its fair share of stress. Between travel, hosting, gift planning, and a packed schedule, it’s no surprise that many people unknowingly carry tension into the new year. And one of the first places that tension shows up? Your jaw and your teeth. If you’ve recently noticed jaw soreness, morning headaches, tight facial muscles, or tooth sensitivity, you may be experiencing the after-effects of clenching or grinding — also known as bruxism. The weeks following the holidays are one of the most common times patients begin to feel these symptoms, making January a critical month for paying attention to your oral health.

With a new year comes new goals — and for many people, this includes improving their smile. Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about confidence, comfort, and investing in your long-term oral health. If you’ve spent years wishing your teeth were whiter, straighter, smoother, or more symmetrical, this may be the perfect year to make that change.