How Stress Can Cause Dental Health Issues Like Tooth Pain

The dominant theme of this blog is to help individuals when it comes to their overall health, focusing mostly on the financial and physical aspects of it. One of the things I have talked about over and over is the impact of stress on people’s lives. Overwhelming feelings of stress may do more than just keep you up at night or cause headaches – they can also lead to severe dental problems. Stress is an often overlooked factor in dental health, with potential to cause serious issues such as tooth sensitivity and pain. When you endur extreme stress, you might not notice the subtle changes in your body, but they can accumulate over time. One of these changes can be how your body reacts with your oral health, leading to problems that you might not immediately associate with stress. Among these issues, teeth grinding and canker sores are a couple examples. Over time, these conditions can lead to chronic pain and other dental problems.

So, how exactly does stress connect with your dental health? Let’s take a closer look.

How Stress Can Cause Dental Health Issues

Stress has become a major problem in today’s society, especially lately with all the uncertainties that have revolved around the COVID-19 pandemic, economic pressures, politics, and a growing abundance of health concerns. This past year, you’ve likely felt more stress than usual. We have all heard about how bad stress is for our mental health and some of the physical ailments it can cause, and I’ve also talked about how not having your financial health in order can also lead to stress which can trickle down and impact other areas of your life. But what most people don’t know is that stress can also majorly affect their dental health. Too much stress can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums. Here is a list of some of the ways stress can affect your teeth and tips on how to manage it.

1) Tooth Decay

Stress can contribute to tooth decay, also known as cavities. When you are stressed, you may indulge in unhealthy coping mechanisms such as consuming sugary snacks or drinks, having poor oral hygiene routine, or grinding your teeth. These behaviors can increase the risk of tooth decay. Additionally, stress can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off bacteria that cause cavities, which as you know is essentially a form of tooth loss. To prevent tooth decay, make sure to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine, eat a balanced diet, and find healthy ways to manage your stress levels.

2) Gum Disease

Stress can also lead to gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease. When you are stressed, your body produces higher levels of cortisol, a hormone that can weaken your immune system. This weakened immune system makes it easier for bacteria to invade your gums, leading to inflammation and infection. Symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad breath, and gum recession. To prevent or manage gum disease, practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.

3) Canker Sores

Stress increases the likelihood of developing mouth sores, cold sores, canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers. These painful sores appear on the tissues of the mouth and result from the breakdown of mouth lining caused by an immune system response triggered by stress. Although the exact cause of canker sores remains unclear, it is believed that stress weakens the immune system, making the mouth more susceptible to these painful ulcers.

During periods of heightened stress, it is crucial to prioritize stress reduction methods to prevent canker sores and maintain good oral health. If a canker sore appears, over-the-counter medications like Orajel or numbing agents can provide temporary relief. Rinsing your mouth with saltwater can also help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

4) Dry Mouth

Stress can contribute to dry mouth, a condition characterized by reduced saliva production, also known as xerostomia. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by neutralizing acids, washing away food particles, and preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. When stress leads to decreased saliva flow, it can increase the risk of dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

Managing stress effectively can help combat dry mouth and promote better oral health. Staying hydrated, practicing stress-reducing techniques, and avoiding caffeine and tobacco can all contribute to alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

By prioritizing stress management, you can significantly improve your dental health and overall well-being. Incorporating relaxation techniques, engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and seeking support from friends, family, or professionals can all contribute to effective stress reduction.

5) Bruxism (Grinding)

One of the biggest links between stress and teeth manifests itself in teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. And this is something I have personally endured myself. I grind my teeth at night and use a professionally made night guard. When you are stressed, you may unconsciously clench your teeth while you sleep or grind your jaw back and forth. Over time, symptoms of bruxism include wearing down or chipping your tooth enamel, as well as your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Since teeth grinding because of stress usually happens when you’re asleep, you may not be aware you’re doing it. If you’ve noticed symptoms such as headaches, jaw pain, TMJ disorders, abnormal tooth wear, broken teeth, or tooth and gum sensitivity, it’s crucial to address the issue of sleep bruxism. Try to find healthier ways to cope with your stress, and consider using a mouth guard (night guard)provided by your dental professional to protect your teeth while you sleep.

For more about bruxism, see John Hopkins Medicine

It’s important to prioritize your dental health by managing stress effectively. By understanding the impact of stress on your teeth and implementing healthy habits, you can maintain a healthy smile even during challenging times.

Importance Of Stress Management

Fortunately, there are several treatment options when it comes to managing stress that don’t involve medications! Below are some of the most effective stress management techniques to help prevent teeth problems.

1. Get Active: Exercise Your Way to Stress Relief

Engaging in physical activity is a great way to relieve stress. You don’t have to be an athlete or in top shape to benefit from exercise. Any form of movement can help. Physical activity releases feel-good endorphins and other natural chemicals in your brain, improving your overall well-being. It also helps you focus on your body’s movements, allowing your mind to let go of daily irritations. Whether it’s walking, jogging, gardening, or cleaning, find an activity that gets you active and enjoy the stress-relieving benefits.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Nourish Your Body, Nourish Your Mind

Eating a healthy diet plays a vital role in self-care. Make sure to drink plenty of water and include a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your meals. Avoid unhealthy habits like excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, smoking, overeating, or using illegal substances. These habits may provide temporary relief, but they can harm your overall health and exacerbate stress in the long run. Prioritize nutritious foods to support your body and mind.

3. Meditate: Find Calm and Balance Through Mindfulness

Meditation is a powerful technique to quiet the mind and reduce stress. By focusing your attention and calming the stream of thoughts, you can achieve a sense of calm, peace, and balance. Meditation can be practiced anytime, anywhere. Guided meditation, visualization, and deep breathing exercises are great ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine. Take a moment to meditate during a walk, while commuting, or even when waiting at the doctor’s office.

4. Laugh More: Harness the Power of Humor

Laughter is an excellent stress reliever. It not only lightens your mental load but also triggers positive physical changes in your body. Seek out humor in your daily life. Read jokes, watch comedies, or spend time with funny friends. Even if you have to force a fake laugh, it can still have a positive impact on your well-being. Consider trying laughter yoga, a fun and unique way to experience the benefits of laughter.

5. Connect with Others: Social Support for Stress Relief

When feeling stressed, it’s common to isolate yourself. However, reaching out to family and friends can provide valuable social connections that help alleviate stress. Social contact offers distraction, support, and a greater ability to cope with life’s ups and downs. Take breaks with friends, email relatives, or visit your place of worship to engage with others. Volunteering for a charitable group can also be a fulfilling way to help others while helping yourself.

6. Assert Yourself: Learn to Say No and Delegate

Trying to do it all only adds to your stress. Learning to say no and delegating tasks can help you manage your to-do list effectively. Saying yes to everything may seem like the best way to avoid conflicts, but it can lead to internal conflict and overwhelm. Prioritize your needs and set boundaries. By asserting yourself, you can better manage your stress levels and find balance in your responsibilities.