How Stress Can Impact Your Oral Health
May 24, 2016
Do you know what might be causing a decline in your oral health? Stress in Durango, CO is a common cause of many oral ailments, but why?
Why Stress Affects Oral Health
Most people know there is a significant link between stress and overall health, but what about stress causing a decline in oral health? For the most part, people who are under significant amounts of stress aren’t as diligent with their oral hygiene as unstressed individuals. When you are thinking about work, family or other stressful issues, it’s hard to remember to floss every day or maybe you just don’t want to stand there for a full two-minutes brushing away. However, things like teeth grinding and clenching are more a subconscious reaction to stress as opposed to a diminishing care routine.
Common Oral Conditions Brought on By Stress
Due to stress, you may notice a few symptoms of common oral conditions like the following:
- Canker Sores: The cause of these pesky sores is a mystery, but stress has been known to bring them on.
- Gum Disease: As a result of poor oral hygiene, gum or periodontal disease can develop.
- TMD/TMJ: Trauma, grinding and stress are known to cause TMD and/or TMJ symptoms.
- Bruxism: This term refers to grinding your teeth at night and can be treated with a mouth guard.
- Dry Mouth: This can result from stress or be a side effect of certain anti-depressant medications.
- Lichen Planus: White lines, ulcers or sores in your mouth are the hallmark of this infection.
- Burning Mouth Syndrome: If you have an otherwise unexplained burning sensation in the gums, tongue, lips or palate you might have this syndrome.
Call Us Today to Find Out More
For more information about stress and oral health or to have a dental check in, give our team a call to schedule your personalized consultation with Dr. Mason Miner.