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Stress is a part of everyday life. Stress can be good, such as feeling excited about an upcoming event, or it can be bad, such as feeling anxious about speaking in front of a large group of people. Too much stress can have negative effects on your oral health.

Coping With Stress Through Oral Healthcare

If you’re one of the many people who struggle with high-stress levels, it’s important to find ways to cope with that stress outside of your oral health. However, it’s also important not to ignore your dental health while you are trying to manage stress. People who are stressed often neglect their oral hygiene, so they may suffer from gum disease and have a higher risk of tooth decay. They may also experience symptoms of bruxism, which is clenching or grinding teeth while they sleep. This can lead to tooth damage, such as cracked, broken, or chipped teeth. Patients may also experience dry mouth and stress-related jaw clenching, and TMJ disorder from prolonged periods of stress and worry. These can all cause oral health problems.

The best way to prevent these kinds of oral health problems is to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings, in addition to practicing good oral hygiene at home. By maintaining your smile with regular care, you can reduce your risk of developing more serious problems in the future. Talk to your dentist if you’re experiencing any symptoms of stress so you can work together to manage your stress and improve your overall well-being. In addition, if you regularly grind or clench your teeth when you’re awake, a dentist may be able to fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth from damage during the day as well.

And if you find yourself chronically stressed out, consider looking into relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to help you manage stress levels in your life. Not only will this benefit your overall health, but it could have a positive impact on your dental health as well!

Tip: To help manage your stress, avoid drinking beverages containing caffeine, such as coffee, soda, tea, or energy drinks. Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase your risk of anxiety, headaches, and other stress-related health issues. Rather, drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated and healthy.

To learn more about ways to maintain your oral health, visit Mountain View Advanced Dental in Mountain View, CA, or call our dental clinic at (650) 988-9458.