Stress and Oral Health
The American Dental Association reports that dentists have seen a rise in stress-related dental health issues since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. It's not surprising stress is known as the silent killer. It contributes to many conditions throughout the body, such as heart disease and gastrointestinal problems. Most people know this, but they don't realize their oral health is in jeopardy as well.
How Can Stress Affect My Oral Health?
There is a hormone in your body, cortisol, that spikes when you are under stress. When this happens, your immune system will not work as well. This makes you more susceptible to bacteria in your mouth that can cause gum disease and decay. Stress can make you grind your teeth at night. This can cause a host of dental problems.
Stress-Related Oral Conditions and Symptoms
Grinding Your Teeth
Grinding your teeth, also called bruxism, is a very common stress-related problem. It's often an unconscious act done while you are asleep. You may not realize you are doing it until the signs appear. If you grind your teeth at night, you may notice chips in your teeth or fractures. You can also crack crowns or fillings. You may also wake up with unexplained headaches.
TMJ Disorders
Stress is a contributing factor to some temporomandibular joint disorders. Stress from clenching your teeth can cause an onset of TMJ or make an existing one worse or more painful. Most people don't realize their dentist in Maryland can help with this issue. If your jaw pops or clicks, you experience pain when chewing, or your jaw feels tender, please make an appointment with our dentist in Maryland.
Inadequate Oral Hygiene Routine
Ongoing stress can contribute to lax dental hygiene habits. Stressed people may just give their teeth a cursory brush or skip flossing. This is especially bad for dental health as stressed people often don't make the best dietary choices either. A piece of cake is a lot more relaxing than a salad when you aren’t feeling well.
Infections
Canker sores inside the mouth are common in people under long-term stress. They are not contagious or harmful, but they can hurt if you chew or eat spicy foods. In most cases, the sores will go away in a few weeks. If they don't, please come in and see our dentist in Maryland.
How Do I Care for Myself When I'm Stressed?
It's essential that you take good care of your teeth and gums when you feel stressed. You should also maintain your normal checkup and teeth cleaning routine so your dentist can spot any changes in your oral health quickly.
Reducing Stress Symptoms
It's essential that you discover what is causing your stress. If you can eliminate your stressor, you'll feel better. However, for many people it is much more complicated than eliminating the stressor. If you have stress symptoms, there are several things your dentist can help you with to ensure your oral health does not suffer due to stress.
Addressing Your Teeth Grinding
One of the worst ways stress can damage your teeth is by causing you to grind your teeth at night while you sleep. You could break a tooth or restoration or develop a TMJ disorder. Our dentist in Maryland can make a custom night guard for you. One that is made specifically for you will be more comfortable to wear and protect your teeth better as you sleep.
Managing Pain
If stress symptoms are causing you oral pain, make an appointment to see our dentist in Maryland. There are many different ways to manage pain or discomfort. You may need a fractured tooth repaired from grinding your teeth or you may have developed a cavity from poor oral hygiene. Your dentist can fix the issue and suggest OTC pain relievers or physical therapy for jaw pain.
How Can I Take Care of Myself When I'm Stressed?
You can do several things that will help reduce your stress levels and maintain your oral health. Get enough sleep at night and eat a healthy diet. You'll feel better when your body has the nutrients it needs. Avoid alcohol and tobacco products and find healthier ways to relax. Finally, maintain good dental hygiene habits.
Our dentist in Maryland offers effective treatments to help you manage your stress-related dental problems. You'll also learn how to prevent further damage so you're not stuck in an endless cycle of stress and dental health issues. Call today for an appointment.
