The Surprising Link Between Stress And Your Smile
Can you believe it’s already November, and the holiday season is right around the corner? We don’t know about you, but for us, this year is flying by! While this time of year brings joy and excitement for many, it can also be stressful for others. You’ve likely heard about the negative effects of stress on your overall health, but did you know it can impact your oral health too? Read on to learn more about how stress can damage your teeth and gums.
How Stress Affects Your Oral Health
Do you experience high levels of stress? Many aspects of daily life, such as your career, family concerns, financial worries, or even the upcoming holidays, can contribute to stress. While stress affects overall health, it can also take a toll on your oral health.
Bruxism
One common issue related to stress is bruxism, which is the act of clenching and grinding your teeth. Most people are unaware they have this condition because it occurs during sleep. Over time, bruxism causes premature wear and tear on tooth enamel, leading to cracked enamel and the potential need for treatments like dental crowns or even dental implants.
Dry Mouth
Another concern caused by high stress levels is dry mouth, which occurs when there is a lack of saliva. Without enough saliva, problems such as dental decay and gum disease can develop. To combat dry mouth, we encourage patients to drink plenty of water to add moisture to the mouth and help remove lingering food and bacteria.
If you’re concerned that stress is affecting your oral health or you’re overdue for an oral hygiene examination and cleaning, we recommend contacting our office in Kaufman, TX, to schedule an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
