Stress and anxiety can be harmful to both your physical and mental health as well as your dental health. It can increase your risk of gum disease and tooth loss. It can also worsen any existing dental problems.

Stress can be mental, emotional, or physical. It can be caused by any situation that causes the body to react negatively. The body releases hormones in response to stress that can severely impact your oral health.

Dental issues caused by stress can include:

• Grinding your teeth during sleep
• Bruxism
• Teeth clenching
• Tooth sensitivity
• Gum recession
• Jaw pain
• Bad breath

These issues can happen anytime throughout the day. They cause discomfort and embarrassment. If you have experienced any of these problems as a result of stress, talk to your dentist today about treatment options that can help you achieve better oral health.

How Does Cortisol Affect Oral Health?

Cortisol is the hormone associated with stress. When the body is under stress, the brain releases more of this hormone in an attempt to help the body recover. Over time, this can lead to a number of negative health effects. This includes increased inflammation throughout the body, which can then lead to gum disease. Because bacteria in the mouth feed on excess sugars and starches in food, high cortisol levels can cause further irritation to the gums. This can make plaque more likely to build up between the teeth and at the gum line, leading to gingivitis or periodontitis. These conditions can damage the gum tissues and increase the risk of tooth loss. Our dentist in New York can recommend tips to avoid stress, such as exercise, meditation, taking breaks throughout the day to relax, and eating a healthy diet.

What Can I Do About Stress and its Affects on Oral Health?

You can practice relaxation techniques to help reduce stress in your life, such as deep breathing or meditation. You can also avoid biting your nails, using your teeth as a tool to open packages, chewing your pencil, or other non-food items. If you find yourself grinding your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a night guard made to wear while you sleep. These simple tips can drastically improve your oral health and reduce your risk for tooth decay or gum disease.

To learn more about the dentist in New York, NY, visit Century Dental Associates at 353 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1600, New York, NY 10016, or call (212) 587-3000. Our dentist is your best resource for a recommendation that will allow you to achieve a healthy smile!