Stress can have a major impact on your mouth. From short-term complaints to long-term problems, stress can affect almost every aspect of your oral health. At Ridgetop Dental Group Northern VA, we want to remind our patients to look out for signs of stress-related oral health issues, including teeth grinding, jaw tension, mouth sores, and changes in daily hygiene habits.
If stress has you clenching or grinding your teeth, read our main bruxism guide: How to Stop Grinding Your Teeth and Save Your Smile. If you are waking up with jaw soreness, headaches, or tooth sensitivity, schedule a visit so we can check for signs of grinding and help protect your teeth.
Mouth Sores
It’s a common aphorism that stress gives you ulcers. You may be surprised to learn that this is not so far from the truth. Mouth sores, such as canker or cold sores, often spring up in response to emotional stress. While cold sores are a symptom of the herpes virus, doctors aren’t sure exactly what causes canker sores. Whatever the cause may be, they are more common in times of stress.
Teeth Grinding
This is probably the most common unconscious physical reaction to stress. The next time you are feeling stressed, pay attention; you may find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth without meaning to. Grinding teeth can cause headaches, jaw pain, and undue wear. Left untreated, it can ruin jaw alignment and even develop into a more complex problem such as TMJ. Since much teeth grinding occurs during sleep, a nighttime mouthguard may be your best bet to combat this issue.
If grinding is happening at night, a custom nightguard may help protect your enamel and reduce stress on your jaw while we look for the cause.
Poor Oral Hygiene and Diet
Patients who are stressed may not be giving themselves the time to brush teeth or floss regularly. In addition, a poor diet resulting from stress can cause a lack of vitamins and nutrients. These vitamins and nutrients not only benefit your physical health but your oral health as well. Be sure you are eating regular, healthy meals.