Why High-Stress Lifestyles Require Extra Dental Care Attention

Are you constantly dealing with high levels of stress in your daily life? If so, it's important to know that this can have a significant impact on your dental health. From grinding your teeth at night to neglecting proper oral hygiene habits, high-stress lifestyles require extra attention when it comes to dental care. 

How Stress Affects Oral Health

When it comes to our oral health, few things are as important as managing stress. That's because stress can have a direct and negative impact on our teeth and gums. Studies have shown that people who experience high levels of stress are more likely to suffer from gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.

So what exactly is stress, and how does it affect our oral health? Stress is a physical response to any demand placed on our bodies. When we perceive a threat, our bodies go into "fight or flight" mode, releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can cause a number of changes in our bodies, including an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.

In addition to these physical changes, stress can also lead to poor lifestyle choices that can impact our oral health. For example, people who are under a lot of stress may be more likely to smoke or drink alcohol, both of which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Stress can also cause us to neglect good oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing regularly.

If you're experiencing high levels of stress, it's important to take steps to manage it effectively. There are many different ways to do this, including exercise, relaxation techniques, and counseling. In addition, be sure to see your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups so that any problems with your teeth or gums can be detected early on.

Symptoms of High-Stress Levels on Your Teeth and Gums

When you're under stress, your body goes into survival mode and diverts all its resources to keep you alive. This means that your immune system takes a hit, and you become more susceptible to infections – including those in your mouth.

Your gums may bleed more easily when you brush or floss, and they may be red, swollen, or tender. You may also develop canker sores or cold sores. Your teeth may become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, and you may grind or clench your teeth (bruxism). All of these symptoms can lead to gum disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see your dentist as soon as possible. They can help determine if stress is the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan to help improve your oral health.

Tips for Reducing Stress & Practicing Good Oral Care

Here are some tips for reducing stress and practicing good oral care:

1. Get regular dental checkups and cleanings. This will help to remove any plaque or tartar that has built up on your teeth and will also give your dentist a chance to spot any potential problems early on.
2. Practice good oral hygiene at home. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash.
3. Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks. These can cause damage to your teeth' enamel.
4. Don't smoke. Smoking is bad for your overall health, including your oral health. It increases your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
5. Limit your alcohol consumption. Too much alcohol can also lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
6. Manage your stress levels. Stress can wreak havoc on your oral health, so it's important to find ways to relax and de-stress each day

Contact Everyone's Family Dental to receive the best dental treatments in Schofield, WI, by calling (715) 803-2535 or visiting us at 2809 Schofield Avenue Suite B, Schofield, WI 54476.