Stress and Oral Health: 7 Ways Stress Impacts Your Teeth and Gums
We all experience stress, but did you know it can affect our oral health? Beyond feeling overwhelmed, stress can surprisingly impact our teeth and gums.
When your mind is weighed down by tension, your mouth often bears the brunt of it. From teeth grinding to gum issues, the connection between stress and dental health is undeniable.
#1. Teeth Grinding and Jaw Pain
Stress has a very close relationship with teeth, and one of the most recurrent pathways is bruxism or grinding of teeth. This happens especially when you are stressed because you might find yourself grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw without knowing it.
This often happens while you sleep, leaving you to wake up with sore teeth, a stiff jaw, or even headaches. Over time, grinding can wear down your enamel, crack your teeth, or strain your jaw muscles, potentially leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
If you’re waking up with these symptoms, it’s worth speaking to your dentist about custom night guards to shield your teeth from the damage caused by stress.
#2. Gum Disease and Inflammation
Your gums aren’t immune to stress, either. High amounts of stress may weaken your immune system, making it more difficult for your body to fight diseases. This can lead to gum inflammation, increasing your risk of gingivitis and, if untreated, periodontal disease.
Do you experience any circumstances that cause your gums to bleed after using a toothbrush or when flossing? While stress isn’t the only cause, it could be a contributing factor.
Managing stress and following good oral hygiene practices—like brushing twice daily and flossing—can help keep your gums in good shape.
#3. Dry Mouth
Stress often triggers hormonal changes in your body, reducing saliva production. Because saliva neutralises acids and washes away food particles, it is essential for maintaining oral health.
When your mouth is dry, you’re more prone to tooth decay and bad breath.
Saliva flow can be increased by chewing sugar-free gum and drinking lots of water. However, if you’re experiencing persistent dry mouth, it’s essential to visit your dentist for tailored advice and treatment options.
#4. Increased Risk of Cavities
When life feels overwhelming, neglecting self-care routines, including dental habits, is easy. Skipping, brushing, or flossing when stressed creates the perfect environment for plaque buildup, which can lead to cavities.
Additionally, stress may tempt you to reach for sugary snacks or drinks for comfort. While they might provide temporary relief, sugary foods can fuel bacteria in your mouth, leading to decay.
Instead, try swapping sugary snacks for healthier options, like crunchy vegetables or nuts, which can help clean your teeth as you chew.
#5. Canker Sores and Mouth Ulcers
Have you ever noticed painful sores appearing in your mouth during periods of stress? Though not contagious, Canker sores are often triggered by stress and a weakened immune system.
These small ulcers can make eating and talking uncomfortable but usually heal within a week or two. In the meantime, avoid spicy or acidic foods that irritate the sores and rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution to soothe the discomfort.
#6. Weakened Immune Response
That is why stress is dangerous. It messes up not only your mental health but also your physical health, including the health of your teeth. A stressed body produces higher levels of cortisol, a hormone that, in excess, can weaken your immune response.
A weaker immune system leaves your mouth more vulnerable to infections, from gum disease to oral thrush. Managing stress, such as practising mindfulness or staying active, can improve your overall and oral health.
#7. Neglecting Dental Visits
When stress takes over, it’s easy to neglect dental health. Rescheduling check-ups or ignoring early signs of dental issues might seem like a short-term solution, but it can lead to bigger problems.
Routine dental visits are vital, even during stressful times. Your dentist can spot issues early and help you address them before they escalate.
Think of these visits as part of your self-care. You should understand that dental hygiene is as important as the overall health of your body.
How to Break the Stress-Oral Health Cycle
Having learned how stress affects teeth and gums, you will be glad to know that you can do things to prevent damage. Start by building small habits into your daily routine, like brushing and flossing regularly, drinking water, and eating a balanced diet.
Stress management is also key. Whether it’s yoga, meditation, or simply walking, find what helps you unwind and prioritise it.
If you’re dealing with persistent dental symptoms, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with your dentist. They can provide guidance, solutions, and treatments to keep your oral health on track.
Oral Health in Applecross
Your smile deserves to shine, even in stressful times. If you’ve noticed signs of stress affecting your teeth and gums, now is the time to act.
At Epsom Dental Care Applecross, we’re here to support you every step of the way, from addressing immediate concerns to helping you maintain long-term oral health.
Call (08) 9316 0555 to book your online appointment. Together, we’ll ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy, no matter what life throws your way.
Visit us at 729 Canning Hwy in Applecross.