We all know that stress can have a negative impact on our physical and mental state. Many of its consequences on well-being and health are widely known, such as those on sleep and digestion. In addition, some of its consequences are less obvious at first glance. This is the case of the negative effects it can have on the mouth and teeth because, among other things, of the behaviors it causes. Your dentist at Carrefour Dentaire 440 in Laval discusses here the links between stress and the health of the mouth and teeth.
A look back at stress
To fully understand its impacts on oral health, let’s first look back at stress and the reactions it induces. By definition, stress is our body’s response to a situation perceived as a danger, real or not. It is this biological reaction that allowed our ancestors to defend themselves against threats in their environment such as wild animals, fire or bad weather. Although there are still real dangers to guard against, the sources of stress are now more hypothetical and abstract. Consider the hectic pace of contemporary life and the pressure to perform at school, work, and other spheres.
Regardless of the situation that induces it, stress triggers physiological responses, including:
- High muscle tension.
- Headaches, stomach aches, and other physical pains.
- Sleep disturbances that can cause great fatigue.
- Skin responses such as hives and eczema.
- Heart rate changes.
- Anxiety and irritability.
Stress Responses That Affect Oral Health
1. Bruxism
Stress is one of the triggers for bruxism episodes, which is the involuntary clenching of the jaws, with or without lateral movements. This reflex is particularly damaging to the mouth and teeth, especially when it occurs during sleep, when it cannot be controlled. It also affects the quality of sleep. In addition, the pressure placed on the teeth and jaws can lead to excessive wear of the enamel, degradation of the tooth structure, temporomandibular joint disorders and, sometimes, gum recession.
2. Nail Biting
This behavior, also called onychophagia, is a common stress reduction strategy. Some people do it as a reflex, while others use this method—more or less intentionally—to keep their hands busy in a stressful situation. This habit has several undesirable effects:
- Repeated contact between teeth and nails causes microtrauma to tooth enamel, which can break in the long term and provide less protection against external attacks.
- Dentin hypersensitivity (sensitivity to heat, cold and acidity) due to damage to the enamel.
- Undue pressure on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), leading to destabilization of the articular discs resulting in fatigue or jaw pain.
- Risks of infections (such as gingivitis) due to the transfer of bacteria, which are very numerous, that live on the nails to the mouth.
3. Snacking between meals
Some people snack or eat sweets and treats (chocolate, candy, chips, etc.) to compensate for the stress felt. These products containing sugar or starch (a slow and sticky sugar) attract bacteria. This behavior therefore increases the risk of cavities, an infection that develops precisely when bacteria concentrate on a tooth surface, and the acids they emit pierce the enamel.
If you doubt the impacts of your stress on your oral health, do not hesitate to talk to your dental team in Laval. We can direct you to the appropriate resources to help you better manage it and suggest ways to mitigate these negative effects!