From Stress To Smiles: The Hidden Link Between Stress & Oral Health
Everyone experiences stress at one point or another, and sometimes, it even helps a person perform better. But when stress becomes chronic, it can start to affect more than just your mood. Did you know stress can also damage your teeth and gums? It’s true! Stress can affect your oral health. But there’s no need to stress about it because we have some practical tips on how to protect your smile when things get tense.
The Effects of Stress
From your gums to your teeth, chronic stress can trigger a range of issues you might not immediately connect to tension. Understanding these effects is the first step towards protecting your smile.
Teeth Grinding
Many people unknowingly grind or clench their teeth, especially during sleep. This condition, known as bruxism, can wear down your teeth, cause jaw pain, increase sensitivity, and in severe cases, lead to fractures. If you wake up with headaches or a sore jaw, stress might be the culprit.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth occurs when saliva production decreases. When people feel anxious, they often start breathing through their mouths, which dries out the tissues inside. Research shows that high levels of stress can also reduce how much saliva your glands produce. Saliva plays an important role by washing away bacteria and food debris from your mouth. Without enough saliva, these particles remain in your mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
Gum Disease
Stress affects your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections like gum disease. When you’re stressed, you may also develop unhealthy eating habits, such as snacking on sugary foods. This can further contribute to gum problems and tooth decay.
Sores
Stress can trigger canker sores, small, painful ulcers that develop inside the mouth. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, it’s believed that stress may cause the immune system to attack the lining of the mouth, leading to these sores. They can be uncomfortable and make it harder to maintain good oral hygiene.
How to Reduce the Impact of Stress on Teeth
By incorporating healthy habits and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can reduce the toll stress takes on your smile. Here are some effective strategies to keep your teeth strong and your mouth healthy, even during tense times
Relaxation Techniques: Practices like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help calm your mind and reduce stress.
Regular Exercise: Physical exercise increases endorphins, your body’s natural mood elevators and enhancers, which lower stress levels.
A Mouthguard: If you are prone to grinding your teeth at night, a custom-made mouthguard can protect your teeth from wear and tear and reduce strain on your jaw. We encourage you to contact us to discuss this option.
Medical Treatment: For canker sores caused by stress, we can recommend over-the-counter and prescribed medications that help ease discomfort and promote healing.
Protecting Your Smile Starts With Managing Stress
At Ackley Dental Group, we understand that your oral health is connected to your overall well-being, and stress is a big part of that equation. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, like jaw pain, dry mouth, or frequent canker sores, we’re here to help.
Whether it’s fitting you for a custom mouthguard, recommending soothing treatments, or just helping you feel more at ease during your visits, our team is dedicated to your comfort and health. Schedule an appointment with us at our offices in Spring Hill, FL.
