Oral Health and Stress: How to Protect Your Smile During Stressful Times
April is National Stress Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to highlight how stress affects not just your mind and body but also your oral health. From teeth grinding to dry mouth, stress can take a serious toll on your smile. Let’s explore common stress-related dental issues and how to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
1. Teeth Grinding & Jaw Clenching (Bruxism)
“Many patients don’t realize they grind their teeth until we notice signs of wear or fractures. If you wake up with jaw pain or headaches, it’s worth checking in with your dentist.”
Stress often leads to unconscious grinding and clenching, especially at night.
This can cause jaw pain, headaches, and even wear down your teeth.
Solution: A custom nightguard can protect your teeth while you sleep.
2. Gum Disease & Weakened Immunity
High stress levels can weaken the immune system, making you more prone to gum infections.
Symptoms include bleeding gums, swelling, and persistent bad breath.
Solution: Stick to a strong oral hygiene routine and don’t skip dental checkups.
3. Dry Mouth from Stress & Anxiety
Stress can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth, bad breath, and a higher risk of cavities.
Solution: Stay hydrated, chew sugar-free gum, and avoid excessive caffeine.
4. Stress Eating & Sugary Cravings
Comfort foods high in sugar and acidity can increase the risk of cavities and enamel erosion.
Solution: Swap out sugary snacks for crunchy fruits and vegetables that promote saliva flow.
Managing stress is key to maintaining a healthy smile. If you're experiencing stress-related dental issues like grinding, jaw pain, or gum inflammation, Vero Smiles Dentistry can help! Call us at (772) 569-0070 to schedule an appointment today.