Stress can have many harmful impacts on our lives and oral health is no exception. Many of us tend to put our own needs on the back burner during stressful times. This can take a serious toll on physical, mental, and even your oral health. Here are a few signs your mouth might be telling you to relax and take it easy.
Canker Sores
Canker sores are the not so subtle way of telling you that you’re stretching yourself a little too thin. You can always try normal remedies like reducing acidic foods or topical medications. If nothing seems to work consider the possibility that you might just need to take a moment for yourself every now and then.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding can cause serious damage to your teeth. The problem is, a lot of people don’t realize they are doing it. Teeth grinding occurs while people are sleeping. If you have frequent headaches, jaw and tooth pain you might be a nocturnal grinder. If you think this could be happening to you, talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard to save your teeth and reduce your pain.
Changing your Habits
I think we’ve all been at that point where it feels like our stress runs our life. All too frequently we point at everyone and everything before ourselves. It’s too easily forgotten that self-care could really help with our stress levels. Often in times of high stress, people change their routine. Changes in diet and hygiene rituals can take a toll on your teeth.
I’m not just talking about stressing over a new project at work. I’m talking about the constant state of stress where you feel like you don’t even have two minutes to properly brush your teeth in the morning. You quickly run your toothbrush across your teeth and grab a donut on the way to work. These are the type of stress habits that will sneak up on you and slowly put your teeth at risk.
Combined with poor eating habits, a poor oral hygiene routine will put you at greater risk for serious dental problems like gum disease. When stressful times force you to prioritize your life, be sure to include oral cares.
Jaw Clenching
Jaw clenching is the result of what I like to call facial frustration. Jaw clenchers tend to hold onto their daily stress without even realizing it. If you have persistent jaw pain or your jaw pops and clicks when you’re chewing, you might be crunching your teeth down too tight. A mouthguard could also be beneficial in this situation.
Dry Mouth
Lastly, stress and some medications made to help with stress can lead to dry mouth. Saliva is very important to defending your teeth and gums against bacteria. Without your normal abundance of saliva, you are at greater risk for tooth decay.
Eliminating stress in your life may be near impossible, but you don’t have to live with oral symptoms as well. Remember that setting a little time aside for yourself goes a long way; even if it’s just two minutes to properly brush your teeth. If you have any of these symptoms just adding to the stress of your world we would love to take the extra worry away. Making an appointment with Eagle Rock Dental Care in Rexburg is now easier than ever with our online option. Plus you can always call one of our three offices. If you are still left with questions contact us!