Let’s learn how stress affects your oral health.
Have you been feeling stressed lately? Well, you are not alone. Stress is a constant companion for many persons in today’s fast-paced world. But did you know that stress can affect more than just your mental well-being? It can physically impact your well-being, too, including your oral health. Let’s learn how stress affects your oral health.
Direct Impacts of Stress on Oral Health
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, aka bruxism, is often linked with anxiety and stress. People who grind their teeth might not even recognize they are doing it, mainly while sleeping. Similarly, stress may result in unhealthy habits like chewing on non-food items like pens or fingernails. Over time, these harmful habits can affect oral health, resulting in jaw disorders, tooth damage, and headaches.
Gum Disease
Chronic stress impacts your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight against the bacteria that cause gum disease.
Mouth Sores
Cold sores (caused by the prevalent herpes simplex virus) and canker sores (small ulcers in the mouth area) often appear during periods of high stress.
Indirect Consequences of Stress
Chronic stress may also indirectly impact oral health by influencing choices and behaviors.
Unhealthy Eating
Stress often results in comfort eating, which usually means eating more acidic, sugary, and unhealthy foods. These can lead to tooth decay.
Poor Oral Hygiene Habits
Under stress, you might neglect good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing your teeth 2x daily and flossing. These habits can take a backseat when stress is high, affecting overall oral health.
Tobacco and Alcohol Usage
Many persons turn to drinking alcohol or smoking to cope with their stress. Unfortunately, these habits can result in many oral health problems, possibly leading to oral cancer or gum disease.
Stress Management Strategies for Excellent Oral Health
- Despite how stressed you are, try not to neglect your oral health routine, and consider it a non-negotiable part of your self-care routine.
- Explore stress management methods such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Physical activity also minimizes stress levels and increases your mood.
- If you are struggling with managing stress and it’s impacting your oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance.
Empower yourself today by visiting Annapolis Dental Care for a dental check up if you are overdue!
Transform Your Smile with Annapolis Dental Care
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, your dentist in Annapolis is here to serve! Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. Please give us a call at 410-267-0766 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!