Unpopular Connection Between Stress and Oral Health

Stress is unavoidable. Whether you are stressed about work, school, family, health, or relationships, stress can take a toll on your body. Stress can affect your oral health by causing or worsening oral health issues, such as gum disease and jaw pain. 

Stress and Oral Health

Long-term stress can also increase your risk of oral diseases. Studies show that stress can make it difficult for the body to fight off the bacteria that cause gum disease. It can also weaken your immune system, making it difficult for your body to ward off other infections that can affect the mouth. This can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease.

When your body experiences anxiety, your adrenal glands release stress hormones that increase your heart rate and blood pressure. When you are under stress, you may grind your teeth, or you may clench your jaw. If you experience these signs, visit your dentist to rule out a bigger issue. You may also want to speak to your doctor about ways to manage stress and for preventing teeth grinding.

The body’s response to stress is often referred to as “fight or flight.” This response can cause you to sweat profusely and shake uncontrollably when faced with extreme situations. However, the body can also undergo this reaction during intense moments of fear or worry. Your body may react to a stressful situation by causing you to sweat, shake, have high blood pressure, and feel nauseous. In some cases, you may experience diarrhea and stomach issues as your body attempts to rid itself of the toxins released by the stressed state.

While experiencing stress is not always a bad thing, it can have a negative impact on your oral health. During times of stress, you may want to consider using a night guard to protect your teeth from damage. Night guards fit comfortably over the teeth and prevent the jaws from clamping down together, preventing damage to the teeth caused by bruxism, more commonly known as teeth grinding.

Tips To Manage Stress

First, make sure you are practicing good oral hygiene and getting regular checkups and cleanings with your dental office in Salt Lake City, UT. This is the best way to stay on top of any potential oral health issues and help prevent them before they happen. 

Second, don’t skip out on sleep! When you are tired, you are far more likely to snack instead of eating a healthy meal, which can also lead to tooth decay. If you are having trouble sleeping, try making your bedroom into a restful oasis where you can relax in. Try replacing bright overhead lights with softer lamps, and keep electronics from interrupting your slumber. 

Third, engage in activities that you find relaxing and enjoyable. Whether it’s reading a great book or taking a nice bath, spending time with the things you enjoy is essential to help you relax. When your mind is free from worry and stress, your body is able to relax and de-stress as well. Plus, you’ll feel better overall and be able to better handle whatever life.

You can visit our office at 3550 S 5600 W #3, Salt Lake City, UT 84120, and get to know our team here. For bookings, call us at (801) 966-3166.