How Stress Affect Oral Health?

High levels of stress can be detrimental to both your physical and mental health, but oral health may be impacted the most severely. When stressed, the body releases the hormone cortisol, which helps to prepare your body for "fight or flight." This response increases your heart rate and elevates blood pressure. Additionally, it suppresses your immune system and reduces the flow of blood to your gums. All of these effects reduce the body's ability to heal itself, which can put you at risk for tooth decay, soft tissue infections, and even tooth loss. Be sure to practice good oral hygiene habits to keep your mouth healthy during times of stress. 

With advances in dental technology, today's dentists can provide treatments for a wide array of oral health problems without causing undue discomfort or pain. If you've experienced anxiety in the past at the dentist's office, be sure to tell your dentist at your next appointment. Your dental team can help make you more comfortable during your treatments by administering nitrous oxide sedation, which helps you relax while remaining awake and responsive throughout your procedure. 

How Is Stress Related to Oral Health?

When you are stressed, you may experience a variety of psychological reactions in your body. These reactions can include an increased heart rate and blood pressure, shortness of breath, and a surge of adrenaline throughout your body. Adrenaline causes an increase in your heart rate and blood flow to your muscles, which is why you may feel dizzy or faint when you are stressed out. Your body may also release cortisol, which is the stress hormone that can affect your entire body. This includes your mouth. When your body releases cortisol, it can increase your blood pressure and cause inflammation throughout your body. This can cause you to experience heightened pain sensitivity in your gums and teeth, including when you consume hot or cold foods and drinks. This can lead to serious toothaches and even tooth loss. 

The best way to avoid these negative effects is to manage stress and find ways to relax your body and mind. You can practice mindfulness techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga to help soothe your mind and reduce feelings of tension in your body. You can also find ways to reduce your stress levels with exercise and hobbies you enjoy. Reducing and eliminating stress from your life will improve your health in more ways than one!

Dr. Darian, D.D.S. of Winning Smiles Dentistry, is here to provide you with the best treatment and advice possible. To make a reservation or to learn more about our dental services, please contact us at (623) 777-7942. Alternatively, you can visit us at your nearest location to see the dentist in Glendale or the dentist in Phoenix.