Does Stress Affect Oral Health?

Dr. Pamela Doray and her team are committed to ensuring that their patients stay healthy during this difficult time, which is why we want to review oral health problems that can be caused by stress. Patients who are under stress may clench or grind teeth or not maintain their oral hygiene as properly as they did before. If you have noticed any of these dental issues arise, call our office for comfortable future dental care.

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Oral Health Problems Tied to Stress

Dental problems that may arise from stress include:

Mouth Sores: Canker or cold sores are often caused by emotional stress. They can also cause pain and feel uncomfortable for patients.

TMJ: Temporomandibular joint disorders can be caused by stress. Clenching and grinding teeth in stressful situations and at night can cause headaches, tooth damage, jaw pain, and other painful symptoms.

Poor Oral Hygiene and Diet: Patients who are stressed may not be giving themselves the time to brush teeth or floss regularly. In addition, a poor diet resulting from stress can cause a lack of vitamins and nutrients. These vitamins and nutrients not only benefit your physical health but your oral health as well.

Gum Disease: Being under stress can affect your immune system and can cause damage to your gums. Periodontitis, or gum disease, is an oral health problem that may cause bleeding gums, gum recession, and even tooth loss.

Dry mouth: A lack of saliva in your mouth can cause dry mouth. Saliva has many oral health benefits as it washes away food particles from your teeth and gums.

Contact Our Office

Call Dr. Doray and her professional dental team at (215) 395-6076. Dr. Doray is a Philadelphia, PA dentist that is passionate about helping patients get happier and healthier smiles. If you ever have any questions about treatment, feel free to ask a member of our staff who will be able to assist you.