Stress and anxiety can have a significant detrimental impact on a person’s overall health. What we don’t discuss as often (but should!) are the potentially damaging effects of stress and anxiety on dental health.
How Stress and Anxiety Affect Dental Health
Stress and anxiety can have a significant impact on dental health. Here are some of the ways in which stress and anxiety affect our oral health:
- Teeth grinding / bruxism – an estimated 10 million Americans suffer from head, jaw, or neck pain associated with jaw disorders. Many of these cases can be attributed to grinding or clenching of teeth (bruxism), which can lead to enamel wear, tooth sensitivity, cracked teeth, headaches, and jaw pain.
- Neglecting oral hygiene – stress has been shown to weaken the immune system. It can also create a tendency to brush and floss less frequently and procrastinate dental checkups, further elevating the risk of bacteria and plaque buildup, which causes gum disease and tooth decay.
- Dry mouth – stress can result in neglect of the need for proper hydration, which is a cause of dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath and, eventually, tooth decay.
Ways to Manage Oral Health Amid Stress and Anxiety
Unfortunately, some level of stress in life is inevitable. The good news is that this stress doesn’t have to threaten our well-being. Here are some tips for prioritizing dental health in the face of increased stress and anxiety:
- Practice good oral hygiene – maintaining a strong dental health routine, including daily brushing and flossing and regular dental checkups, can reduce anxiety, both in the moment and by preventing future problems.
- Stay hydrated – drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine can help not only prevent dry mouth but also reduce stress and anxiety.
- Practice relaxation techniques – techniques like deep breathing, yoga, and meditation help to reduce stress levels.
- Wear a mouthguard – prevent teeth grinding and clenching during stressful periods by wearing a mouthguard while sleeping.
Restorative Dentistry in Midtown Manhattan, NYC
If you’re in NYC and want to learn more about restorative dentistry in response to stress and anxiety, contact dentist Dr. Helma Philips and the Midtown NYC Dental team to schedule a consultation!