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Stress comes at us from all angles on a daily basis – work, relationships, money issues, health troubles. The list goes on and on! No matter what type of stress you’re under, it is harmful to your oral health. In fact, chronic stress can even lead to the development of gum disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Take steps to reduce your stress levels every day before they take a toll on your health.

Some signs of excessive stress include clenching or grinding your teeth, mouth sores, dry mouth, tooth discoloration, chronic bad breath, and sensitive teeth. If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your dentist about how you can reduce your stress levels and protect your smile at the same time. If stress has already damaged your teeth and gums, work with a dentist to repair your smile.

Stress Affects Oral Health

We certainly know that a stressful life can have negative effects on your health, including your oral health. Stress can make it difficult for you to properly care for your mouth, teeth, and gums. This can lead to a number of issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. That’s why it’s so important to schedule regular checkups with your emergency dentist in South Salt Lake so that we can help you maintain your oral health in the face of stress. Here are some ways that stress can affect your dental health:

• Inflammation in your gums can become more pronounced when you’re stressed. This inflammation can make it more likely that you’ll develop gum disease or periodontal disease.
• A dry mouth is one of the most common side effects of stress. Unfortunately, dry mouth is a situation that’s ripe for the development of cavities since it makes it easier for bacteria to thrive in your mouth.
• Teeth grinding is a very common habit among people who are under stress. If you start to grind your teeth while you’re stressed out, you’re more likely to experience issues with tooth damage or even tooth loss.
• Your immune system can be weakened by stress, making you more susceptible to oral infections. This can lead to problems with not only your teeth but also your gums and other parts of your mouth.
• People who feel stressed are less likely to engage in preventive dental care, such as twice-yearly exams and regular brushing and flossing sessions. If you don’t regularly practice good oral hygiene, it’s easier for oral issues to develop. Make time in your schedule to care for your smile so that you can minimize the effects of a hectic lifestyle.

How Can Stress Be Managed?

 If your stress is work-related, discuss with your employer about your concerns and look for ways to alleviate them, such as talking to your boss about finding a solution to your problems. Finally, consider ways to manage your finances and debt, such as creating a budget or finding ways to earn more money through a second job. Alleviating your financial stress will, in turn, alleviate some of the stress you may feel from your oral health needs, as you will not have as much worry about affording treatment.

For the best dental care tailored to your unique needs, visit Main Street Dental at 3195 S Main St Ste 225, South Salt Lake, UT 84115, or call (801) 467-2255.