Oral Health and Stress
The busy pace of daily life, personal and professional responsibilities, financial difficulties or relationships can cause stress to enter our lives from time to time.
However, it is well known that stress negatively affects not only our mental health but also our physical health. One of these negative effects is oral and dental health. There is a strong relationship between our oral health and stress and this relationship should not be ignored.
Effects of Stress on Oral Health
-
Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)
- One of the most common effects of stress on oral health is bruxism, that is, teeth grinding. When you clench your teeth without realising it, especially at night, the tooth enamel wears down and the jaw muscles get tired. This can lead to hypersensitivity of the teeth, headaches and problems with the jaw joint. Long-term teeth grinding can cause serious problems up to tooth fractures and jaw slippage.
-
Gum Diseases (Periodontal Diseases)
- Stress weakens the immune system, reducing our defences against bacteria in the mouth. This can increase the risk of infection in the gums and lead to gingivitis (gingivitis). If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into more serious gum diseases such as periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.
-
Dry Mouth
- Stress can lead to hormonal changes in the body, which can reduce saliva production. Saliva is extremely important for oral health because it cleans the mouth of food residues and provides natural protection against bacteria. Dry mouth can predispose to tooth decay and oral infections.
-
Aphthae and Mouth Sores
- During stressful periods, many people complain of small mouth sores called canker sores. These sores are usually harmless but can be quite uncomfortable. Stress weakens the immune system in the body, increasing the risk of such sores.
-
Poor Oral Hygiene
- People under intense stress can often neglect their oral care. Disruptions in tooth brushing and flossing, neglect of regular dentist checks, etc. can cause serious problems in dental health in the long term.
Ways to Cope with Stress and Tips for Oral Health
Although it is not possible to completely eliminate stress from our lives, some steps can be taken to reduce the negative effects of stress on oral health:
-
Regular Oral Care
- Even if you are stressed, it is very important to pay due attention to your dental health. Brushing and flossing at least twice a day can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
-
Relaxation Techniques
- Relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga and breathing exercises can reduce your stress levels and prevent stress-related problems such as bruxism.
-
Tooth Grinding Preventive Measures
- If you grind your teeth at night, you may want to consider getting night trays from your dentist. These aligners minimise the damage of bruxism by protecting your teeth and jaw muscles.
-
Regular Dental Check-ups
- Regular dental check-ups are one of the best ways to control the effects of stress on your oral health. Your dentist can recognise early signs and take preventive measures.
-
Drink Plenty of Water
- Take care to drink enough water during the day to prevent dry mouth caused by stress. By increasing your saliva production, you can help clean the bacteria in the mouth.
