Stress is a normal physical response to difficult situations. While stress is a normal part of life, too much of it can lead to serious health problems, including increased blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. Stress can also impact oral health. When the body releases cortisol in response to a stressful event, more glucose is produced and sent to the bloodstream for energy. The blood vessels in the gums also widen to send blood to these tissues more quickly. This can cause the gums to bleed more easily when brushing or flossing. It can also increase the level of plaque in the mouth, which can lead to tooth decay.
Additionally, when we are stressed, our body is more susceptible to infections, which means that something like gum disease may be more likely to take hold during stressful times. This is why it is especially crucial to maintain regular dental care and practice good oral hygiene habits while under a lot of stress. If you feel as though you are grinding your teeth often or that you are experiencing jaw pain, talk to your dentist about what you can do to reduce your stress levels and see if your dental health improves as a result.
How Are Other Ways Stress And Oral Health Related?
Both stress and oral health are connected in unexpected ways. The stress of daily life can greatly reduce the overall health of your mouth if you’re not careful. For instance, if you’re going through a stressful period in your life, you may be less likely to brush your teeth properly or as recommended. This can significantly increase your risk of developing cavities over time and may lead to gum disease as well. A patient with more severe anxiety may have the desire to avoid the dentist altogether and may ultimately delay necessary treatments that can improve their health dramatically.
If you’re feeling stressed, try practicing better oral hygiene habits and taking more time to relax each day. There are many ways you can do this, such as taking a bath, reading a good book, or spending time with friends and family. If that doesn’t work for you, you can also discuss stress management techniques with a specialist who can teach you relaxation breathing and other techniques that can help calm your mind and body. With time and practice, you should be able to manage stress more effectively and improve your overall health and wellness as a result!
Contact The Florida Center for Laser Dentistry at (727) 862-8513 or schedule an appointment online to learn more about ways to maintain oral health. We are located at 12124 Cobble Stone Dr, Hudson, FL 34667.
