Many people aren’t aware of this but stress is related to a number of oral conditions and dental problems. Some stress is on the increase and the effect of stress on oral health can go unnoticed. Did you ever wonder how stress can affect your teeth and gums ? Below are a few points how stress can affect our oral health.

1. Stress and Teeth Grinding. Apart from giving tension headaches, stress can also cause people to develop bruxism, thus damaging natural teeth or crowns and bridges. Dental implants can also be affected by teeth grinding. People with a history of bruxism should make use of night guards for protecting their jaws.

2. Stress and Mouth Ulcers. While the exact cause of mouth ulcers isn’t known, many experts believe that the condition is often related to stress. Typically, these ulcers are harmless yet painful.

3. Stress and Xerostomia. When there isn’t enough saliva in the mouth, it can become chronically dry. While stress is a contributing factor in the development of a dry mouth, the condition is primarily associated with the use of certain medications used for depression.

4. Stress and Mouth Problems. It is generally believed that burning mouth syndrome is related to psychological disturbances, including depression. The condition usually accompanies burning sensations on the lips, tongue, palate or gums.

5. Stress and Lichen Planus. Lichen Planus is condition usually accompanied by the development of white lines, ulcers as well as sores in the mouth. According to some studies, lichen planus is associated with viral infections that are can be associated with stress.

6. Stress and TMJ Problems. Stress is also related to temporomandibular joint problems. Tooth trauma and bruxism are often associated with these problems, but emotional factors like depression can make the signs worse.

7. Stress and Gum Disease. Several studies have found a link between stress and the incapability of the immune system to fight disease. The more stressed an individual is, the weaker the immune system gets, which ultimately increases the chances of developing infections like periodontal (gum) disease.

No doubt, stress is directly related to a number of oral health problems but it can also have indirect effects on dental health. Stressed individuals often find it hard to concentrate on their oral well-being, particularly when they have so many other things to worry about. As a result, many people fail to properly floss and brush their teeth.

Imbalanced diet is also associated with stress as sweet and carb-rich foods that promote tooth decay are generally eaten more frequently as a consequence of depression or stress.

Another major link between oral health and stress is that stress doesn’t merely lead to dental conditions, but painful tooth problems can further make an individual more stressed. Furthermore, a person’s ability to tolerate pain is compromised as the body struggles to adapt to stressful situations. As a result, tooth pain can get worse during times of stress.

If you feel that stress is having negative impact on your oral health speak its recommended to speak to your dentist. Brighton Implant Clinic can provide you with advice and or treatment for any dental problem you may have.

For more information please feel free to Contact Brighton Implant Clinic or Call us on 0800 111 6623.

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