Effects of Stress on Your Dental Health
In order for you to function at your best, you will need to feel your best. Unfortunately, stress compromises your ability to operate at your optimum state of function by impacting your mental and physical body negatively. This negativity gets in your way of doing things, including observing good oral health care practices. Consequently, it exposes you to poor dental health. Learn more about effects of dental stress below.
Teeth Grinding
In moments of stress and anxiety, you are likely to grind or clench your teeth as you sleep. This can harm your enamel and lead to a sore jaw and headaches. In extreme cases, teeth grinding can lead to loosening, loss, or breaking of teeth. If you are experiencing severe teeth grinding, you need to consult your dentist for a remedy.
Canker Sores
These are harmless white sores located on your mouth’s soft tissue. Though harmless, canker sores can be a great source of pain and discomfort in the mouth. They are triggered by a shortage of vitamin B in the body, mouth irritation, and stress. Proper stress management solutions can help alleviate the frequency of your canker sores. However, if your canker sores persist after reducing your stress levels, you need to consult your dentist for a medical solution.
Burning Mouth
Burning mouth is characterized by a dry, burning sensation in the mouth and often results from stress, depression, and anxiety. It is prevalent among women past menopause. The burning mouth can be reduced using antidepressants and stress counseling.
Biting Your Nails
Biting your nails might seem harmless, but it actually can have a negative impact on your oral health. It can also misalign and damage your teeth. By chewing on your nails, you are introducing bacteria into your mouth that can lead to infections and disease. You can avoid biting your nails by finding physically engaging activities that require you to use your hands, as well as speak to your healthcare professional about your options.
Leads to Gum Disease
Stress weakens your body’s immune system. This increases your chances of contracting diseases, including oral diseases such as gum disease. Minimize stress and eat food that is good for your oral health to avoid getting gum disease. You also need to observe good oral health care practices, such as regularly rinsing your mouth with mouthwash.
River Valley Smile Center understands the effects of stress on your dental health and has solutions for each condition. Check us out on Facebook or call us at 479.646.0706 to talk to our dentists. Visit our website for additional information!
