It’s no secret that things are a little … stressful right now, for everyone. Patients often come in asking if their dental issues can be stress related, and the short answer is yes. Stress affects our oral health more than people realize, weakening our immune systems and leading to the development of unhealthy habits.
The most talked about stress-related oral health concern is bruxism, or the clenching and grinding of our teeth, caused by holding tension in the jaw. This can happen when you’re awake or sleeping, but most patients notice it the most upon waking in the morning. An easy solution for this can be a custom-made nightguard which separates the teeth, keeping you from being able to grind at night. More complex cases can be treated with muscle relaxers or BOTOX® to relieve jaw tension and prevent further damage to these joints.
Another extremely common effect of stress can be cold sores or other painful lesions developing in and around the mouth. These sores can be caused by both our weakened immune system and the change in hormones that stress can cause. With a weakened immune system, dormant viruses that cause cold sores can be reactivated, leading to bothersome, painful sores around the mouth. Outbreaks of canker sores can be a side effect of the heightened cortisol levels that stress can cause. Depending on the type of sore, over the counter gels and antimicrobial rinses can be quite helpful when alleviating discomfort and clearing them. Talk with Dr. Stenvall to see what the best course of action would be for you!
In addition to grinding and canker sores, stress can also lead us to unhealthy eating habits and general neglect of our oral health. Everyone has their comfort foods, but those are often sugary or acidic which can cause tooth decay and a buildup of plaque. This, in combination with neglecting to come in for regular cleanings and checkups, can leave issues undetected with the potential to progress into something more serious (a filling turning into a root canal and crown, a crown turning into an extraction and implant, etc.).
Stress is something we all experience and often feel that we can’t fully escape, but managing your stress levels is so important when trying to lead a happy and healthy life. Breathing exercises, healthy diet, and a consistent home care routine can all help manage the effects of stress on your oral health. Speak to Dr. Stenvall during your next visit if you feel like you relate to this blog, and we can help you get back on track!