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What Does Stress Do to Your Mouth?

Posted on 6/10/2018 by Sean Saghatchi
Stress Newport Dental Group CA 92627Too much stress is never a good thing. It can leave us anxious and exhausted, but it can also take a toll on our physical health. There are many ways that too much stress might be affecting your mouth.

Clenching and Grinding

There are many people out there who clench and grind their teeth when dealing with a stressful situation. This condition is known as bruxism, and it can even occur at night while you are asleep. This is especially concerning, as you won't be able to stop it. A night guard can protect your mouth from tooth damage as a result of your grinding.

Mouth Sores

Canker sores are painful, white patches that most commonly develop on the inside of the lips. While dentists don't completely understand why they develop, some believe that stress plays a role. Most canker sores go away on their own eventually, but while they are still present they can be quite painful.

Tooth Decay

When you're feeling stressed out, it can be hard to keep your focus on your oral health. This may lead you to miss dental appointments or to struggle with maintaining your oral hygiene routine. Unfortunately, the result could be tooth decay and cavities.

Gum Disease

Stress may lead to gum disease in many ways. First, stress affects the immune system, and this can cause existing gum disease to worsen. Additionally, poor nutrition and poor oral hygiene can also lead to gingivitis or the more severe periodontal disease.

Bad Breath

Stress is a major culprit in dry mouth - a primary cause of chronic bad breath. A lack of saliva impairs the mouth's ability to wash away bacteria and acid, and a foul odor may result.

Even if you are under stress at work or at home, you need to make your dental health a priority. Call us today to set up your next cleaning.

1835 Newport Blvd Suite E267
Costa Mesa, CA 92627

Monday-Friday: 9am - 6pm
Saturday: 9am - 4pm by appointment.
Sunday: Closed

Newport Dental Group | | (949) 574-0100
1835 Newport Blvd, Suite E267 Costa Mesa, CA 92627