How Stress Affects Your Oral Health

Everyone deals with stress at some point- the differences is what is causing the stress: work deadlines, family responsibilities, financial pressure, or the hustle and bustle of daily life. While most people are familiar with the physical symptoms of stress such as tension headaches or fatigue, there are only a few that realize the impact that stress can have on your oral health.

The dental team at HollowBrook Dental believes in taking a whole-body approach to dental care. Your mouth is one of the first places that stress will leave its mark and recognizing those signs early can protect your smile as well as your overall well-being.

In this article, we’ll explore what your mouth may be telling you about your mental state.

Grinding, Clenching, and Jaw Pain

One of the first ways that stress will show up is through teeth grinding and jaw clenching, often referred to as bruxism. You may not even realize you’re doing it, especially if its happening while you sleep. Over time, your enamel will wear down, which will cause cracked or chipped teeth, as well as soreness in your jaw or face. In some cases, it may even lead to temporomandibular joint disorders- or TMJ.

If you find that you often wake up with a sore jaw, headaches, or you’ve noticed an increase in tooth sensitivity, you may want to mention during your next visit. We will be happy to evaluate your symptoms and recommend solutions such as a custom nightguard to protect your teeth.

Canker Sores and Cold Sores

In some cases, stress can lead to uncomfortable flare-ups such as canker sores and cold sores.

Canker sores are small ulcers that form inside the mouth during times of emotional or physical stress. They are not contagious but can be painful. Cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus, typically show up around the lips and are contagious. Outbreaks can be triggered by stress and fatigue.

While neither are typically serious, they are a sign that your body and mouth are under strain.

Gum Disease and Immune Response

Chronic stress weakens your immune system, which makes it harder for your body to fight off infections, such as gum disease. If you let your oral hygiene slip during stressful times, bacteria will accumulate- which leads to inflammation, bleeding gums, and eventually more serious periodontal issues.

In other words, if your body is stressed, your gums can suffer too- which is why it’s important to stay on top of your dental routine even if you’re overwhelmed.

Dry Mouth and Hormonal Changes

When you’re stressed, your body produces more cortisol and adrenaline, which can interfere with your normal body functions. One of the functions impacted is saliva production, which can lead to dry mouth. Saliva is critical for neutralizing acids, washing away food particles, and keeping your mouth healthy.

If you don’t have enough saliva, you’re more likely to develop cavities, bad breath, and gum irritation. If you frequently have dry mouth, it could be your body’s way of telling you to slow down and de-stress.

Poor Habits and Neglected Routines

When you’re stressed, it’s easy to let our dental care routine slip down the priority list. You may tend to reach for sugary snacks and skip flossing after a long day. However, neglecting these habits can add up quickly and have lasting effects on your oral health.

Sticking to a consistent oral hygiene routine and making smart food choices, even during stressful times, can make a big difference in the long run.

Tips for Reducing Stress and Protecting Your Smile

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate stress from your life, there are several ways that you can minimize it’s impact on your oral health:

• Stay active: exercise releases endorphins and reduces tension
• Practice mindfulness: five minutes of deep breathing and/or meditation can make a difference
• Drink water: staying hydrated supports the production of saliva and overall health
• Don’t skip dental checkups: regular dental visits can help us catch small problems before they become big ones
• Use a nightguard: protect teeth from grinding/clenching while sleeping

Let HollowBrook Dental Help You Stress Less About Your Smile

You may not realize it, but your mouth is more connected to your mental health than you might think. If you have noticed gum irritation, jaw pain, dry mouth, or any other changes during stressful times, don’t ignore them. Let our compassionate team at HollowBrook Dental help you protect your oral health, regardless of what life throws your way.

Call us today to schedule your appointment, taking a closer step to a healthier stress-free smile.