Modern life can be very demanding, and stress and anxiety can affect our bodies in many different ways. Did you know that your teeth and gums are easily affected by stress? All of us experience intensity in life at one point or another. However, if you let stress overtake your life, it’s not just your mental health which could be at risk.
Here are just a few ways how stress affects your oral health and what you can do to counteract these problems. Any good dentist and oral health therapist will be happy to help you find the best solutions!
Do You Grind Your Teeth?
Tooth grinding can be very common – you may not even be aware that you are doing it. Many people grind their teeth when they feel stressed or when they are under a lot of pressure. However, this is naturally going to put your oral health under a lot of strain. Grinding your teeth is only going to wear them down, and cause you a lot of pain in the long run.
The best way to stop grinding your teeth is to be mindful, or to chew sugar-free gum whenever you feel stressed. Otherwise, a night guard can offer lots of protection. You may need to wear one overnight if you are grinding a lot in your sleep.
Do You Look After Your Teeth Enough?
Some people, unfortunately, can get themselves so busy or so stressed that they neglect to look after their teeth and gums properly. That means that they can forget to brush correctly, to floss, or to even get regular check-ups. It is particularly stressful for pregnant women and parents of young families.
Of course, the best way to remedy this is to find the time! If you fail to look after your dental hygiene, you could end up with painful cavities and gum disease – if not worse. Always make sure to take care of your teeth and gums in the morning and the evening at the very least. Otherwise, you are going to risk toothache or even an emergency dental appointment.
Are You Developing Sores?
Some sores and lesions can develop through stress. Cold sores, while generally caused by a virus, can flare up under stressful conditions. The same goes for ulcers and tiny sores within your mouth. While not life-threatening, they can be very painful to have to deal with on a daily basis.
You can apply topical creams and ointment to help soothe sores, however, do always consult with your local oral health therapist. Sores contribute to a lot of dental pain, and an oral health therapist and dentist will help to address the source of these problems and to help you find a resolution.
Book In With an Oral Health Therapist
A dental clinic will take care to look closely at your oral health and will help you build a plan of action to counteract stress and all the tooth and gum problems it can bring. Don’t risk a toothache! Take things at a slower pace and always prioritise your dental health.
