We all experience stress from time to time. It's a natural part of life. But when stress becomes chronic, it can take a toll on our overall health, including our oral health.
The connection between stress and oral health is complex, but research shows that stress can contribute to a variety of oral health problems, including:
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Gum disease: Stress can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infection. This can lead to gum disease, which is an infection of the gums that can damage the bones and tissues supporting your teeth.
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Tooth decay: Stress can also lead to changes in eating habits, such as increased consumption of sugary or acidic foods. This can increase the risk of tooth decay.
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Canker sores: Stress can trigger the development of canker sores, which are painful ulcers that can appear on the inside of the mouth.
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Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Stress can worsen symptoms of TMJ disorders, which are characterized by pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint.
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Bruxism (teeth grinding): Stress can cause people to grind their teeth at night, which can lead to headaches, jaw pain, and tooth wear.
The good news is that there are things you can do to manage stress and protect your oral health. Here are a few tips:
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Practice relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help to reduce stress levels.
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Get regular exercise: Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and improve overall health.
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Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet can help to boost your immune system and reduce inflammation.
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Get enough sleep: When you're well-rested, you're better able to cope with stress.
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See your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health.
By taking steps to manage stress and maintain good oral hygiene habits, you can protect your oral health and improve your overall well-being.
In addition to the tips above, it's important to talk to your dentist about any concerns you have about your oral health. They can help you develop a personalized plan to keep your mouth healthy and stress-free.
About | Dentist Surprise, AZ | Greenway Family Dental Our dentists Dr. Niel and Dr. Ly are not only the owners, but they are also the day-to-day managers and truly care about their team and patients. Learn more here! Greenway Family Dental, 15409 West Greenway Rd, #100, Surprise, AZ 85374 : (623) 546-3511 : greenwayfamilydentalsurprisearizona.com : 7/9/2025 : Key Phrases: dentist Surprise AZ :
We all experience stress from time to time. It's a natural part of life. But when stress becomes chronic, it can take a toll on our overall health, including our oral health.