{"id":139,"date":"2022-04-04T20:12:00","date_gmt":"2022-04-04T20:12:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.springhettidentistry.com\/blog\/?p=139"},"modified":"2022-05-17T20:12:57","modified_gmt":"2022-05-17T20:12:57","slug":"impact-of-chronic-stress-on-oral-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.springhettidentistry.com\/blog\/2022\/04\/04\/impact-of-chronic-stress-on-oral-health\/","title":{"rendered":"How Are Chronic Stress & Oral Health Intertwined?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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It comes as no surprise that stress can impact your general health. Simply feeling anxious can cause digestive issues, headaches, chest pains, acne, or other symptoms. Then imagine that feeling being prolonged and constant with chronic stress \u2013 it\u2019s no surprise this is detrimental to you in myriad ways including the effect on your oral health. When your dentist in Carmel<\/a> conducts a checkup and cleaning, they will often be able to see evidence of stress-related conditions. Keep reading to learn just how significant the impact is and how you can prevent chronic stress from sabotaging your smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Biting Your Fingernails<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Do you chew when you\u2019re nervous? Some people may bite their fingernails when they\u2019re stressed and not even realize it. However, this seemingly mindless habit can be harmful to your oral health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nail-biting can move your teeth out of position, wear away your enamel, and introduce bacteria into your mouth that can lead to infections. If you feel the need to chew on something, try eating hard, tooth-friendly foods like apples, carrots, or celery instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gum Disease<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Researchers from the University at Buffalo, the University of North Carolina, and the University of Michigan discovered the severity of gum disease increased corresponding to the amount of stress a patient experienced. That\u2019s because when you\u2019re feeling stressed, your body has a much more difficult time fighting off infections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While this issue may initially only cause inflamed gums that bleed easily, it can eventually lead to tooth loss. Practicing good oral hygiene and regularly visiting your dentist will help keep your gums healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Teeth Grinding<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Stress and anxiety are two major causes of bruxism, the medical term for teeth grinding. It\u2019s a common oral health problem that usually happens when you\u2019re asleep. Bruxism slowly wears down your enamel, leading to sensitive, weakened teeth that are more vulnerable to chips, cracks, and cavities. If the condition is severe, it may even cause loose or broken teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TMJ Disorder<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Feeling stressed may cause you to clench your jaw and grind your teeth, possibly leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Symptoms can include constant headaches, discomfort, clicking, and popping. To protect your smile from the extra pressure, your dentist may suggest wearing a custom nightguard, meditation, or antianxiety medication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Canker Sores<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Most people have experienced the occasional mouth ulcer or canker sore. While vitamin B deficiency and mouth irritation are usually at fault, multiple studies show stress is another big trigger for canker sores. They generally occur inside the mouth and are not contagious. If you\u2019re experiencing discomfort, your dentist may prescribe a gel or cream to relieve pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stress-Management Tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Reducing stress can help you lead a healthier lifestyle. Here are some tips to alleviate tension:<\/p>\n\n\n\n