Stress and Oral Health
Emotional stress can take a toll on your body, including your mouth. If your dentist in Georgia is noticing unusual problems, like signs that you've started grinding your teeth, he or she may ask you about changes in your life. Let your dentist know if you have a new job, are going through a divorce or anything else, don't shy away from telling them. Knowing what is happening in your life can help your dentist create a treatment plan that you will follow.
How Can Stress Affect My Teeth?
When you are under stress, your boy releases the hormone cortisol. This hormone weakens your immune system and can increase your chances of developing cold sores and gingivitis. Additionally, stress can make you grind your teeth at night and make you less likely to follow through with your normal dental hygiene routine.
Oral Health Conditions That Stress Can Cause
Bruxism
When you are under chronic stress or anxiety, you may begin to grind your teeth at night. You may not realize that you are doing it, but your dentist will notice the signs. Grinding your teeth can wear down your enamel, making you more susceptible to cavities. You could also crack a tooth or a filling or crown. If you grind your teeth for a prolonged period, you can even wear your teeth down. You will also probably wake up with a headache.
TMJ
TMD or temporomandibular joint disorder, is a condition that affects the joint that opens and closes your jaw. Grinding your teeth and stress can aggravate the condition. The good news is that TMD from stress may be temporary. Reducing your stress may relieve the symptoms.
Poor Dental Hygiene
When you're under heavy stress, cleaning your teeth every morning and night may not seem important. Nevertheless, poor oral hygiene can lead to cavities and gum disease. You also have to see your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings. Stress can lead to poor dietary choices, like sugary drinks and foods, so good dental hygiene is especially important.
Infections
People under stress can develop canker sores on the inside of their mouths. Unlike cold sores that can appear around the lips, canker sores are not contagious. These small, white lesions can make eating and speaking painful. Canker sores will usually go away on their own, but if they don't go away on their own, call our dentist in Georgia to make an appointment.
How Can I Take Care of My Teeth and Gums if I'm Under Chronic Stress?
Chronic stress can take a toll on your teeth and gums. Often, people under stress are rushed, but you should never ignore your dental hygiene. It only takes a few minutes a day to brush and floss. Also, be sure to keep your regular dental appointments with your dentist for exams and teeth cleanings.
How Can I Reduce My Stress Symptoms?
The first thing you can do is to reduce your stress. This is easier said than done if your stress is your employer, a family situation, or any other life circumstance. You'll have to find ways to deal with your stress and then talk to your dentist in Georgia about how to alleviate the symptoms of your chronic stress that are affecting your oral health.
How Can I Address Teeth Grinding?
Your dentist in Georgia can address your teeth grinding by fitting you with a night guard to minimize the damage to your teeth while you work on reducing your overall stress. The night guard will help prevent damage to your teeth.
What if I Have Pain From Damage to My Teeth From Stress?
If you’re in pain from stress damage, your dentist may suggest over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, or teach you how to massage your jaw. Your dentist is a valuable source of information. Also, if the pain is from grinding your teeth, like a fractured tooth, your dentist can repair it to ease your discomfort.
How Can I Take Care of My Dental Health When I Am Under Stress?
The easiest way is to recognize when you are under chromic stress and work to address your triggers. If you are noticing abnormal dental issues, see your dentist right away. Also, maintain your oral hygiene routine and avoid any habits that can hurt your teeth.
Our dentist in Georgia can recognize stress-related dental issues. Please call for an appointment if you are noticing anything unusual. Our dentist will also find ways to keep the problem from returning so you are not stuck in a cycle of prolonged stress and prolonged dental problems.
