Why dies one face stress? It could be physiological, physical, psychological or emtoional. All these lead to stress which directly affects health and overall wellbsing. Most stress that happens shows its effect on oral health. The most common effect being night or teeth grinding. That then leads to all other issues, brittle teeth, gingivitis, bone weakness, jaw pain and many more.
Stress, in simple terms, is a response to any stimuli that requires people to adjust or adapt. This can be anything from a demanding job to a difficult relationship.
The body’s response to stress involves the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which helps body stay alert and focused in challenging situations. However, chronic stress can have a negative impact on our physical and mental health.
One of the common physical manifestations of stress is teeth grinding or bruxism. The involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth can occur during sleep or while awake.
While occasional teeth grinding is not harmful, persistent bruxism can cause dental problems like worn-down teeth and jaw pain. In this article, we will explore the link between stress and teeth grinding in detail.
We will examine the causes, symptoms, treatment options for bruxism as well as practical tips for reducing daily stress levels.
By understanding how stress affects our oral health, we can take steps to protect our smiles and overall well-being.
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Effects of Stress on Oral Health
- Gum disease: Stress can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off gum infections.
- Dry mouth: Stress can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth (xerostomia), which can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Poor oral hygiene: Stress can lead to neglect of oral hygiene habits, such as regular brushing and flossing.
- Canker sores: Stress can trigger or exacerbate canker sores (aphthous ulcers).
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Stress can contribute to TMJ disorders, leading to jaw pain, clicking, and limited mobility.
- Tooth decay: Stress can lead to increased sugar cravings or poor dietary choices, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
- Oral habits: Stress can lead to habits like nail biting, cheek biting, or tongue thrusting, which can damage teeth and oral tissues.
Managing Stress-Related Oral Health Issues
- Practice good oral hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can help prevent oral health issues.
- Stress management technique: Engage in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation, exercise, or therapy.
- Visit your dentist: Inform your dentist about your stress levels and any oral health concerns.
By understanding the impact of stress on oral health, you can take steps to mitigate these effects and maintain good oral health.
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Dr. Chirag Chamria – Oral Surgeon in Mumbai | Expert in Zygomatic Implants & Oral Cancer Surgery
Smile Makeover
Dr. Chirag Chamria – Oral Surgeon in Mumbai | Expert in Zygomatic Implants & Oral Cancer Surgery