Living With Healthy Hunger Health Blog
Stress is an inevitable part of our daily lives, and how it affects our general health has been well-established. Oral health is one area that is frequently disregarded when thinking about the effects of stress. Dental professionals and researchers are becoming aware of the complex relationship between our mental and oral health.
Stress can substantially negatively impact our dental health in several ways, whether it comes from work pressures, interpersonal interactions, or other factors. People’s oral habits and behaviors may change when they are under stress. A dental care in Brookline helps take preventive steps to lessen the effects of stress by being aware of its potential implications on oral health.
Stress can affect oral health if these areas are neglected:
- Teeth grinding and clenching:
The dental disorder known as bruxism, characterized by teeth grinding and clenching, is quite common. You could unwittingly fall into this behavior when stressed, especially while trying to sleep. Too much force applied to the teeth can cause tooth discomfort, enamel loss, fractures, or cracks. Bruxism can cause tooth surfaces to wear down over time, leading to unequal tooth lengths, jaw pain, migraines, and aching muscles.
- Poor mouth hygiene
When under stress, it’s common to slack off on daily tasks, including mouth hygiene. When brushing and flossing are rushed or neglected, plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, can build up on your teeth. Plaque can solidify into tartar if not properly removed, which can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Stress-related distractions and fatigue may also contribute to neglecting routine dental check-ups, compromising oral health.
- Gum Disease
Chronic stress can reduce the immune system’s capacity to fight off infections, which increases your risk of developing gum disease. Gingivitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue, can result in redness, swelling, and bleeding. Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease, if prompt treatment is not received. If left untreated, periodontitis can compromise the tooth’s supporting components and result in tooth loss.
- Canker sores
Aphthous ulcers and canker sores can both be brought on by emotional stress. The cheeks, tongue, and soft palate are common locations for these uncomfortable, shallow sores to develop. Although the precise cause of canker sores is unknown, stress is likely to play a role in their development. Usually, they recover on their own within a couple of weeks, but over-the-counter medications can help alleviate discomfort.
- Dry mouth
Stress can interfere with the salivary glands’ regular operation, producing less saliva and a dry mouth. Saliva is a protective barrier against tooth decay, helps wash away food particles, and neutralizes acids, all essential for maintaining oral health. The likelihood of developing cavities, gum disease, and bad breath rises when saliva production declines. Speaking, swallowing, and wearing dental appliances securely can all be hampered by dry mouth.
