Have you been feeling overworked or under more pressure than usual? You might already know that too much stress isn’t good for your mental or emotional well-being, but many people are surprised to learn that it can also detract from their dental health.
Continue reading to learn about 3 ways that chronic tension and anxiety can potentially harm your teeth and gums and how to safeguard your smile from these common culprits!
Concern #1: Teeth Grinding
People with this condition, also known as bruxism, subconsciously squeeze their upper and lower arches together. It typically occurs at night when you’re asleep, but some people are also impacted during the day. Unfortunately, this habit often develops as a response to added pressure or during periods of intense concentration, like when you’re focused on completing an important goal or task.
All the added pressure from constantly clenching can trigger TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders and jaw pain, as well as prematurely wear down your enamel, which increases your vulnerability to cavities and injuries. Thankfully, your dentist can provide a custom-fitted nightguard that cushions your top and bottom teeth and gives your jaw a much-needed reprieve so it can heal.
Concern #2: Periodontal Problems
Did you know that during periods of heightened stress, your body diverts resources from different systems to support your fight-or-flight response? Anything that your brain perceives as a threat, whether it’s being chased by a bear in the woods or preparing for a career-launching presentation, triggers the release of hormones intended to prepare your body for bursts of energy needed to escape or face the threat.
As adrenaline and cortisol flood your system, your heart rate and blood pressure slow, and any functions it deems non-essential in the immediate moment, like your immune system, suffer. Your body cannot deliver essential nutrients and infection-fighting cells to your teeth and gums, making you more likely to develop gum disease. Brushing and flossing twice daily at home can prevent common oral concerns.
Concern #3: Dry Mouth
Your saliva production is another automatic function that can be interrupted by a chronic state of fight-or-flight, which is bad news for your teeth. Unhealthy bacteria in your mouth thrive in arid conditions, meaning that if your mouth gets too dry, the chances of developing cavities and gum disease increase. Plus, spit has a nearly neutral pH balance to counter any potential acid damage to your enamel.
Drinking more water can keep your mouth moist to prevent germs from flourishing and rinse away leftover food or other debris that attracts them. However, you might also want to find methods or activities that reduce your stress, like exercise and deep breathing.
Thankfully, visiting your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning can provide some much-needed peace of mind that your dental health is in good hands!
Meet the Author
Dr. Moji Chandy has over a decade of experience helping families in Carrollton build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from New York University and is a member of several prestigious organizations, including the American Dental Association, to stay on top of the latest techniques and technology. She takes the time to get to know you so she can personalize treatment plans to meet your unique needs. Then, she utilizes state-of-the-art equipment to improve patient comfort while delivering accurate results. If you’re worried about your dental condition, you can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 492-6700.