Everyone at some point in life can have stress. It may be from school, or from sports, or from friends, or even from family. Not all kinds of stress are bad, and it is possible that it can harm our health in ways we may not even know. One of the areas that stress affects is oral health. To prevent or avoid stress-related problems like gum disease, teeth grinding, and others, regular dental cleaning in Ottawa, ON is available. Let’s find out how stress impacts our oral health and how we can deal with it!
Symptoms of Stress
When we are stressed, our bodies can show signs that something isn’t right. Here are some common symptoms of stress to look out for:
- Feeling anxious or worried: You might feel jittery or unable to relax.
- Trouble sleeping: Stress can make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep.
- Muscle tension: Your jaw or other muscles may feel tight.
- Headaches: Stress can lead to painful headaches.
- Changes in appetite: Some people eat too much when stressed, while others lose their appetite.
Many people do not realize that these symptoms can also show in their mouths!
Oral Health Impacts from Stress
Stress can cause several problems for our teeth and gums. Here are a few ways it can affect our oral health:
- Teeth Grinding: It’s possible that we grind our teeth, clench our jaws and more. This is called bruxism. It can result in worn teeth, jaw pain, and headaches.
- Dry Mouth: Stress leaves the body unable to produce enough saliva, which is the natural mouth liquid. So those with dry mouths have a higher risk of developing cavities and diseases of the gums.
- Gum Disease: Stress can make it harder for our body to fight infections. This means that bacteria can thrive in our mouths and lead to gum disease, which can make our gums red, swollen, and bleed.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: When you feel stressed, you might forget to brush your teeth or resist taking care of your mouth. Skipping oral hygiene can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and bad breath.
Effects of Stress on Your Body
Stress doesn’t just affect our mouths; it can impact our entire body. When we experience stress, our body releases hormones that get us ready to either fight or run away. While this response is helpful in some situations, too much stress can lead to chronic illness. Here are some effects of stress on the body:
- Weakened Immune System: Ongoing stress can hurt your immune system, making it easier to get sick.
- Digestive Problems: Stress can cause stomachaches, nausea, or changes in appetite.
- Increased Heart Rate: Stress makes your heart work harder, which can lead to heart problems over time.
It’s important to understand how stress impacts our entire body—not just our mouths—so we can take better care of ourselves.
Dental Check-Ups and Examinations
One of the best ways to combat the effects of stress on oral health is by visiting the dentist regularly at a dental clinic near you. Here’s why:
- Early Detection: Your dentist can spot oral problems early before they become bigger issues. If you’re grinding your teeth or have signs of gum disease, your dentist can offer solutions.
- Dental Cleanings: Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar from the mouth that brushing might not.
- Advice and Support: Your dentist can give you tips on managing stress and taking care of your mouth. They might recommend mouthguards for teeth grinding or other treatments.
Wrapping Up
Stress can have various effects on our oral health and overall well-being. By recognizing the symptoms of stress and understanding its impact, we can take steps to manage it. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene, visit the dentist regularly, and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or spending time with friends will help with it.
Expert Dental Care for a Brighter Smile at Dr. Sirwan Dental!
At Dr. Sirwan Dental, we provide expert dental care to keep your smile healthy and bright. Our dentist in Ottawa, ON offers a range of services, including cleanings, checkups and more all in a friendly and comfortable setting. We focus on patient care and use the latest technology to ensure the optimal results from the treatment.
Ready to improve your smile? Book an appointment today at Dr. Sirwan Dental!