5 Ways Your Oral Health Can Be Affected by Stress

Stress is a normal part of life, but it can have a negative impact on your oral health. Stress can cause a variety of issues, from dry mouth to gum disease. It’s important to understand the ways stress can affect your teeth and gums, and how to manage it. Here are five ways stress can impact your oral health.

1. Dry Mouth

Stress can cause dry mouth, which can lead to a variety of oral health issues. A dry mouth can cause bad breath, an increase in cavities, and an increase in gum disease. To help manage a dry mouth, make sure to drink plenty of water and avoid sugary and acidic drinks. You can also try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy to help stimulate saliva production.

2. Teeth Grinding

Stress can cause teeth grinding, which can lead to worn down teeth, jaw pain, and headaches. To help manage teeth grinding, try to identify and address the source of your stress. You can also try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. If these don’t help, you may need to wear a mouthguard at night to protect your teeth.

3. Poor Oral Hygiene

Stress can cause you to neglect your oral hygiene, which can lead to an increase in cavities and gum disease. To help manage poor oral hygiene, make sure to brush and floss twice a day and visit your dentist regularly. You can also try to reduce stress by exercising, meditating, or talking to a friend.

4. Canker Sores

Stress can cause canker sores, which are small, painful sores in the mouth. To help manage canker sores, try to identify and address the source of your stress. You can also try to reduce stress by exercising, meditating, or talking to a friend. If the sores don’t go away, you may need to see your dentist for treatment.

5. Gum Disease

Stress can cause gum disease, which is an infection of the gums. Gum disease can cause pain, swelling, and bleeding. To help manage gum disease, make sure to brush and floss twice a day and visit your dentist regularly. You can also try to reduce stress by exercising, meditating, or talking to a friend.

The Bottom Line

Stress can have a negative impact on your oral health. It’s important to understand the ways stress can affect your teeth and gums, and how to manage it. Make sure to drink plenty of water, practice good oral hygiene, and reduce stress by exercising, meditating, or talking to a friend. If you’re experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, make sure to visit your dentist for treatment.