Stress can damage our teeth just as much as a bad diet or poor dental hygiene can.

Stress can really affect our emotional and physical health. It can also wreak havoc on our teeth and gums. Today on the blog, we’re looking at what you can do to help ease the harsh effects of stress on your oral health.

People suffering from stress are more likely to suffer from Bruxism, otherwise known as teeth grinding.

Those suffering from stress often clench their jaw and bite their teeth together. While some people will grind their teeth out of habit, most of the time, it is an unconscious action. People who are stressed will grind their teeth and wear down the teeth causing them to be flat. This can cause a number of problems such as headaches, problems with the jaw and weak teeth.

Stress may lead to dental abscesses.

Those who are having a particularly stressful time are more likely to suffer from dental abscesses. A dental abscess is a collection of pus, caused by a bacterial that form inside the teeth and gum. Abscesses can sometimes occur during periods of stress because our body isn’t able to physically fight the infection as it would do because of suffering mentally. While dental abscesses are unlikely to cause a long-term problem, you should see your dentist. They will be able to provide you with the right treatments and antibiotics.

 

Are you guilty of chewing your cheeks?

Stress can cause us to do a whole host of things. There are obvious signals of stress, such as someone being unable to focus, twiddling your fingers, pulling at your hair. In terms of our oral health, stress often causes us to bite the insides of our mouths. Our tongue or our cheeks are usually the ones to come under fire. Excessive cheek biting can cause painful problems as cuts inside the mouth can make it difficult to eat and drink. Dentists can offer acupuncture or hypnosis for these habits so it may be worthwhile speaking to them to find out what they can do for you!

Stress can also cause bad breath.

As unpleasant as it is, it’s true. When we are suffering from stress, our body can struggle to control the stomach acids leading to problems with acid reflux. Acid reflux is a massive culprit of bad breath! Make sure you’re brushing your teeth regularly, or keep some mints or chewing gum handy for when you’re on the go to beat it!

 

 

If you are suffering from any of the above problems, speak to your dentist.

He/she will be able to advise you on the treatments available to you or some things you can do at home. Stress may be tricky to deal with but it doesn’t have to cause unwanted problems in your mouth.

Don’t have a dentist to speak to? Don’t worry, we can help you. On our website Defacto Dentists, we have thousands of practices in the UK listed and waiting to treat you. To get started, simply type in your location. Then, browse your practice options and pick the one that is best suited to you. Finding the perfect dentist has never been easier.