When you think about oral health, brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups probably come to mind. Stress, hormonal changes, and anxiety can also directly impact your oral health. Anxiety related to dental care can often lead people to avoid necessary treatments, which can result in chronic oral pain and further complicate mental health challenges.
Explore how mental health affects your oral health and what can be done to manage both.
Stress
Stress is one of the most common mental health concerns, and it can significantly affect your oral health. When you’re stressed, your body reacts in various ways, often without you realizing it.
Clenching and Teeth Grinding
One of the most common stress-induced habits is teeth clenching or grinding. This can lead to tooth wear, fractures, and even jaw pain. Many people are unaware they grind their teeth, particularly during sleep, which can cause significant damage over time.
Dry Mouth
Stress can also reduce the production of saliva, which plays a crucial role in protecting your teeth and gums from bacteria. A dry mouth creates a breeding ground for bacteria that cause cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
Acid Reflux
Mental health issues can also trigger digestive problems like acid reflux. When acid enters the mouth, it erodes the enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and decay. Acid reflux can irritate the gums, making them more vulnerable to inflammation and infection.
Hormones
Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy, menopause, or menstruation, can also be influenced by mental health issues, leading to changes in gum health. Hormonal fluctuations can make gums more sensitive, leading to inflammation, bleeding, and an increased risk of gum disease. Mental health conditions can exacerbate these issues if dental care routines are neglected.
Neglecting Oral Care
Poor mental health can lead to neglect in personal hygiene routines, including brushing and flossing. Individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, or chronic stress may skip or forget their oral care routines, further worsening their oral health conditions. This neglect can lead to the buildup of plaque, cavities, and gum disease, which all require treatment from your dentist.
Tips to Maintain Oral Health While Managing Mental Health
- Mindful oral care routine: set reminders or incorporate brushing and flossing into your self-care routine to ensure you maintain good oral hygiene, even during stressful times.
- Stress management: practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or physical exercise to manage stress levels and reduce the risk of bruxism or dry mouth
- Attend your checkups: regular dental checkups can help catch any oral health issues early. Let your dentist know about any mental health challenges or physical symptoms like clenching, acid reflux, or hormonal changes so they can tailor your care
- Stay hydrated: drinking plenty of water can help counteract dry mouth and rinse away acid after reflux episodes
Check out our blog for more easy-to-follow oral health tips
Mental Health & Oral Health
Your mental health and oral health are closely connected, and taking care of both is essential to maintaining a healthy smile. Stress, anxiety, and hormonal changes can manifest as oral health issues like clenching, acid erosion, and gum sensitivity.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or notice changes in your oral health due to mental health struggles, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for guidance and support. A proactive approach to both mental and oral care will keep your smile shining bright for years to come.
Helping You Feel Calm and Comfortable at Barton Oaks
For patients who experience anxiety or fear related to dental visits, Barton Oaks Dental Group offers sedation dentistry to ensure that your experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Sedation dentistry can transform your experience at the dentist, helping you relax and receive the care you need without fear or discomfort.
To schedule an appointment for dental sedation contact us today.
