Stress can take a big toll on our bodies. You may be aware of some common symptoms, such as anxiety, insomnia, or depression, but have you considered your teeth? Problems with oral health, such as teeth grinding, gum disease and dry mouth can be caused by stress. Luckily a visit to your dentist in W1, Harley Street can help to deal with stress symptoms in your mouth.
Oral health stress symptoms
Problems with oral health will only get worse if you ignore them. Get to your dentist in W1 for a check if you notice anything unusual in your mouth or jaw. Here’s some examples of oral health problems related to stress:
Bruxism – teeth grinding
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, usually happens during the night whilst people are asleep. Symptoms include:
- Teeth grinding / clenching
- Worn, chipped or loose teeth
- Tooth pain / sensitivity
- Tired or tight jaw muscles
- Jaw, neck or face pain
- Earache / headache
- Disrupted sleep.
Chronic dry mouth
This is when you don’t make enough saliva. We need saliva to keep our mouths healthy, free from infection, and feeling good. Dry mouth can be caused by stress, or by some medications. Symptoms include:
- Dry / sticky mouth
- Constant thirst
- Sores / cracks around your mouth
- Burning / tingling mouth or tongue
- Dry, red, sore tongue
- Trouble speaking or eating
- Hoarseness
- Dry nose
- Sore throat
- Bad breath.
Gum disease
Stress negatively affects your immune system. In turn this increases your risk of oral infections and gum disease. Some symptoms include:
- Red / swollen / sore gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Mouth sores
- Bad breath.
Other oral health risks linked to stress
When you neglect your usual oral hygiene routines or healthy diet as a result of constantly being in a rush or preoccupied, oral health can suffer. Making time to visit your dentist in W1 can be a reminder to find a way to de-stress. It can also save you from long-term oral health problems. Visit us at Harley Street Dental Clinic to check your oral health today.