The Impact of Stress on Oral Health

Stress and Your Oral Health

You probably know that stress can negatively impact your health, with chronic stress manifesting in a wide variety of health conditions. From disturbing your sleep to increasing your risk of heart attack or stroke, the results of poorly managed stress are a problem for your whole body. Did you know that stress also has a negative impact on your oral health?

What is Stress?

Stress is a natural response to a challenge or demand that feels threatening or overwhelming. It can be the result of work-related pressure, financial problems, relationship issues, health concerns, and significant life changes. We all experience stress, and it can be helpful in pushing us to do things that are challenging. The body responds to stress by releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, in a reaction known as the fight or flight response. When these hormones are released, they increase heart rate and blood flow to muscles, to help us face short-term challenges. However, when chronic stress causes this reaction to occur too frequently, it can lead to a wealth of issues. Not only does the stress response create physiological changes that can be detrimental, but it can also result in behavioral changes like smoking or poor dietary choices that can have a negative impact on the body.

How Does Stress Affect Your Oral Health?

• Stress can cause mouth sores. Canker sores occur inside the mouth, and are small spots with white or gray centers and red borders. They are not contagious, but can be painful, especially when a person is chewing or talking. Cold sores and fever blisters refer to the same type of sore, which is painful and filled with fluid. These typically occur outside the mouth, and are very contagious.
• People under stress often grind or clench their teeth. Clenching the teeth typically happens during waking hours, while grinding is more common at night. Both of these behaviors can cause jaw pain, strain facial muscles, and chip or wear down the teeth. They can also damage tooth enamel and put additional strain on the gums, exacerbating gum issues.
• Stress has been linked to oral infections. Chronic stress can significantly impair the function of the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to infections. It can also create an inflammatory response, creating a welcoming environment for bacteria to thrive. This can lead to oral infections, including fungal infections and dental abscesses.
• Unhealthy behaviors related to stress can damage oral health. Sometimes, people skip brushing and flossing or postpone dental appointments because they’re overwhelmed by stress. They may also use alcohol, drugs, or tobacco, increasing their risk of oral diseases. Rather than maintaining a nutritious diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, people under stress often snack on junk food, which can be damaging to oral health.
• Stress can contribute to gum disease. Gum disease begins with gingivitis, an inflammation caused by the build-up of plaque. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which can severely damage the gums and supporting bones. When a person is under stress, the body’s ability to ward off infection and regulate inflammation is compromised, and this can worsen gum disease.

Managing Stress to Protect Your Health

Chronic stress can lead to oral health issues, and when poor oral health can cause additional stress. The first step in ending this cycle is to find healthy ways to manage your stress. Relaxation techniques like practicing mindfulness, meditating, and deep breathing exercises can all help you take control of your stress. Exercising and talking with someone you trust can also help keep stress under control. In some cases, it may be necessary to seek the help of a behavioral health professional or another health expert to help you modify your habits and find better ways to cope with the challenges of life. See your dentist regularly, as well, and make an appointment if you find yourself grinding or clenching your teeth. Your dentist can recommend a bite guard to prevent tooth damage, and can help ensure that you are protecting your oral health.

Partner with Park 56 to Protect Your Oral Health

If you live in New York and you are looking for a dentist to help you maintain good oral health, why not choose the dentist voted best in the city? At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. Located in the 10022 zip code, we serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online.