Life can be stressful, and stress can have a significant impact not only on your health and body but also on your oral health. While stress seems to increase in our day-to-day lives, your trusted dentist in Edina, MN, thought it would be helpful to share a few easy tips for protecting your dental health during stressful times. Let's get started!
#1 Tooth Clenching and Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding and clenching your teeth at night while you sleep is a common problem, often caused by stress. What's worse is that you may not even realize you're doing it until the damage is done.
Bruxism can contribute to tooth fractures, cracks, and damage. It can also play a role if you have jaw joint (TMJ) discomfort or issues, like your jaw locking or pain and tenderness when you chew.
#2 Canker and Cold Sores
Stress can contribute to the development of uncomfortable cold sores or lesions in your mouth, and sometimes these painful sores are hard to get rid of. Your dentist can help with the dental laser when we catch them early. Reducing stress can also help eliminate canker sores.
#3 Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)
When your TMJ isn't functioning correctly, it can result in the development of a painful joint disorder known as TMD. If you suffer from TMD, you may experience some of these symptoms:
- Jaws locking open or closed
- Pain or tenderness when chewing
- Frequent headaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Ringing in the ears
Stress can contribute to TMD concerns.
#4 Gum Disease
Stress weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to developing problems like gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of your teeth's primary support system, which is your gums and bone. If left untreated, advanced gum disease may lead to eventual tooth loss.
Talk With Our Team
At 50th and France Dental Care, we're here to help you protect your smile! Please reach out to our team at (952) 922-5561 to book your next dental visit.