How is Stress Affecting Your Oral Health?

Living in today’s environment can be undeniably stressful. The fast-paced nature of our society often leaves us feeling overwhelmed and anxious. But how is the stress and anxiety we experience affecting our oral health? Balancing work, personal relationships, and self-care can seem like an insurmountable challenge and sometimes our dental health can suffer. In today’s blog your Pella, IA, dentist discusses how stress affects your dental wellbeing and ways to protect it.

 

Stress and Systemic Health

Stress, if left unmanaged, can have significant repercussions on our overall health. The body’s stress response triggers the release of hormones which are meant to protect us in dangerous situations. However, long-term exposure to cortisol and adrenaline can lead to a range of health issues. A weakened immune system, inflammation, high blood pressure, heart problems, and digestive disorders are a result of chronic stress. Not to mention, the profound impact on mental health is plaguing our society with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and more. Overall, stress can take a toll on both our physical and mental well-being leading to dental neglect.

The Oral-Systemic Link

Did you realize that your systemic health is contributing to your oral health? The inflammatory response discussed earlier takes a dangerous toll on the mouth, triggering inflammation and a weakened immune system spurring periodontal disease and infections. Furthermore, when experiencing anxiety, people often engage in habits that can harm their mouth and teeth. Clenching or grinding the teeth, known as bruxism, is one of the most common responses to stress. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize they are even doing it until their dental hygienist or dentist points out the damage. Overall, stress can have a significant impact on oral health, so it is important to maintain three-to-six-month dental check-ups.

A Stress-free Dental Experience

To ease your dental anxiety, we offer gentle sedation to relax and calm your nerves. At your next dental visit, we will review your medical history and look for inflammatory conditions and signs of stress in the mouth. Products such as nightguards or special retainers may be recommended to reduce the damage from clenching or grinding. If aesthetic damage has already occurred, we can design a healthy attractive smile with crowns or porcelain veneers. Reversing damage from dental neglect is possible and we perform an array of procedures that will return your smile to health.

Schedule Your Next Visit

In times of stress, it is even more important to monitor your dental wellness.  Let us keep your oral health optimized. Give us a call at Allen & Neumann Family Dentistry in Pella, IA at (641)628-1121.