Beat The Back To Work Blues: Stress And Your Oral Health

Heading back to work after a holiday can feel overwhelming, with emails to catch up on and meetings to tackle. It’s no surprise that stress levels rise during this time, but that stress isn’t just affecting your mind – it’s also taking a toll on your teeth and gums. From teeth grinding to gum disease – chronic stress can lead to real dental problems you might not expect.In this article, we’ll explore how stress sneaks into your oral health and, more importantly, share tips to help you protect your teeth and gums.

8 Ways Stress Affects Our Oral Health & What to Do About It

Below are a few ways stress impacts our teeth, and strategies to help reduce these effects of stress on our oral health.

1. Weakened Immune System

Stress doesn’t just make you feel frazzled – it can also leave your immune system struggling. When your body’s defenses are worn down by stress, it becomes easier for bacteria and viruses to take hold. This puts you at a higher risk for dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay. Studies show that chronic stress can lower your ability to fight off infections, making it harder to protect your smile.What to do:

• Get enough sleep to help your body maintain a strong immune system.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients to support immune health.
• Practice stress-reducing activities like deep breathing or light exercise to keep stress levels in check.

2. Tooth Decay

Stress has a way of throwing your healthy habits off track, and when you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s easy to forget about regular brushing and flossing. Over time, skipping these routines can lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay. Stress can also lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms – like reaching for sugary snacks, smoking, drinking alcohol, or even too much coffee – which can worsen dental problems.What to do:

• Create simple, manageable habits like brushing after meals or using mouthwash regularly.
• Choose healthier coping mechanisms instead of sugary snacks, smoking, or alcohol.
• Consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on managing stress and its impact on your oral health.

3. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Stress can often lead to bruxism, or teeth grinding, which can happen unconsciously – especially while you’re asleep. This constant pressure can wear down your enamel, crack teeth, and cause painful jaw issues. If you’re feeling stressed, you might notice yourself clenching your jaw during the day, too. It's a subtle but damaging effect of stress that can result in a lot of dental damage over time.What to do:

• Wear a custom-made mouthguard at night to protect your teeth from grinding.
• Be mindful of jaw clenching during the day and consciously relax your facial muscles.
• Practice stress-relief techniques such as meditation or deep breathing to reduce grinding triggers.

4. Canker Sores and Cold Sores

When stress takes its toll, it can weaken your immune system, making you more vulnerable to mouth sores. Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that appear inside your mouth, while cold sores tend to pop up on the lips. Both are annoying and uncomfortable, but they’re common during periods of high stress.What to do:

• Use over-the-counter treatments for canker sores to alleviate pain and promote healing.
• For cold sores, try antiviral creams or medications to manage outbreaks.
• Avoid acidic or spicy foods that can irritate sores and delay healing.

5. Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)

Stress is a sneaky contributor to gum disease. It weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections like periodontal disease. This condition, which causes inflammation, bleeding gums, and tooth loss, can worsen when stress is in the picture. What to do:

• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily to prevent plaque buildup.
• Schedule professional cleanings and treatments if you have gum issues.
• Incorporate stress management techniques, like relaxation exercises, to help reduce the impact of stress on your gums.

6. Dry Mouth

When you’re stressed, your body can produce less saliva, leading to a dry mouth. While it might seem minor, this can increase your risk for cavities, bad breath, and oral infections. Saliva is essential for neutralizing acids and protecting your teeth, so when it's in short supply, your oral health can take a hit.What to do:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Use sugar-free gum or saliva substitutes to stimulate moisture in your mouth.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen dry mouth, and talk to your dentist if it becomes persistent.

7. Dietary Changes

Stress often leads to unhealthy food choices – reaching for comfort foods, sugary snacks, or excessive caffeine to cope. Unfortunately, these habits can worsen your oral health and lead to tooth decay. It’s essential to find a balance and make mindful decisions when it comes to eating, especially during stressful times.What to do:

• Choose healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, and nuts to support both oral and overall health.
• Reduce sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic beverages that can contribute to oral health problems.
• Focus on a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to keep your smile strong.

8. Tension and TMJ Disorders

Stress can cause tension in your muscles, particularly in your jaw, which can lead to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. This can cause jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing your mouth. When stress is the culprit, it’s important to find ways to relax and relieve that built-up tension.What to do:

• Engage in relaxation exercises like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce jaw tension.
• Make physical activity a regular part of your routine to relieve stress and improve overall health.
• If jaw pain persists, consult a dentist or physical therapist for possible treatments like jaw exercises or a night guard.

Ways To Reduce Stress & Anxiety

Other ways you can help reduce stress and anxiety are:

• Get Enough SleepWhen you’re sleep-deprived, your body produces more stress hormones, which can worsen oral health problems that are already there. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
• Exercise RegularlyExercise helps to reduce stress levels and increases dopamine and serotonin which in all helps to improve your overall health, including your oral health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week.
• Manage Your Time EffectivelyFeeling overwhelmed can lead to stress, so it’s important to learn how to manage your time effectively. This means setting realistic goals and prioritising your tasks.
• Regular Dental Check-upsSchedule and attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can detect and address any oral health issues early. It is recommended to see your dentists every 6 months for a general check up and clean to maintain a healthy smile.
• Limit Smoking and AlcoholSmoking and excessive alcohol consumption can worsen the effects of stress on oral health. Consider quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake.
• Seek Professional HelpIf stress is overwhelming and negatively affecting your overall health, consider seeking help from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counsellor, to manage stress effectively.

Final Thoughts

Stress can have a lasting effect on your oral health, but with a few simple changes to your routine, you can protect your teeth and gums from its harmful impact. Whether it's getting more rest, managing your stress in healthier ways, or staying on top of your oral hygiene, small steps can make a big difference.If you're feeling the effects of stress on your smile, it's always a good idea to get an overall oral health check-up. At Smile Place Dental, we’re here to help you maintain a healthy, stress-free smile. Book an appointment with us today, and let's ensure your oral health is in top shape, no matter what life throws your way.