You don’t have to be a genius to work out that stress is a health concern; stress can cause weight gain, problems with your relationships, and but your wellbeing at risk to a whole host of chronic diseases. However, you may not be aware that stress can also take its toll on your oral wellness, causing gum diseases like bruxism, dry mouth, burning mouth syndrome, and lichen planus.
Bruxism: This is the term used for when you grind and clench you teeth. Research in the Journal of Community Dentistry and Epidemiology has linked this condition with work stress, while a personality type study published in the Journal of Behavioural Medicine found that people who are shy, apprehensive and given to worry, are more susceptible to bruxism. This condition can lead to several problems, such as:
- Cracked teeth
- Sensitive teeth due to wear and tear
- Headaches on waking
- Aching jaws on waking
- Flattened or chipped teeth
To treat bruxism, your dentist may suggest mouth guards or splints, as well as relaxation techniques like meditation.
Dry mouth: Although stress itself can cause dryness of the mouth, it’s more likely to be caused by the medications you’re taking to treat stress, anxiety or depression. It may not sound like a major problem, but without adequate levels of saliva in your mouth, you can:
- Be less able to taste your food
- Have a lower appetite
- Experience increased tooth decay due to the lack of protection
- Have problems wearing dentures because you lack lubrication
- Accumulate more plaque, which increases your gum disease
- Develop tooth wear and sensitivity as a result
Burning mouth syndrome (BMS): This painful, frustrating condition often feels like a scalding sensation on your tongue, lips, palate, or throughout the mouth. It occurs more often in middle-aged and older women, but BMS can affect anyone so you’re never off the hook. The burning sensation can last for months or even years, often starting late in the morning and peaking at evening times. You may feel constant pain, or pain that comes and goes, but regardless, this pain can cause many to experience anxiety and depression. Moreover, you may be affected by:
- Tingling or numbness on the tip of your tongue or in your mouth
- Bitter or metallic changes in taste
- A dry or sore mouth
So that’s how stress can affect your oral health, but does that mean your pretty smile is forever lost as soon as you freak out about an interview or start clenching your teeth when your mother-in-law comes for dinner? With a little know-how and care, stress doesn’t have to stop you smiling. First and foremost you need to brush twice a day for at least three minutes, and floss every day. Your dentist or dental hygienist can show you the right techniques if you’re worried you’re not doing it properly. Also, make sure your toothbrush bristles are soft and polish, as this is less irritating to you gum tissues. You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months, as old, worn out bristles can damage your gums.
Aside from this, there are lifestyle changes you can make to prevent stress-induced gum damages. Eat a healthy diet devoid of sugary junk and rinse thoroughly after every meal. Cigarettes are cause mouth irritation so don’t smoke, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. You should aim for a dentist visit every six months, as he or she can remove the hardened plaque and tartar that cannot be removed by brushing or flossing.
