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How Stress Could Be Affecting Your Smile

Stress is known to affect both physical and mental health. However, did you know that long-term stress can affect your smile? According to a study, people under a lot of stress can have more oral health complications. Our team has put together some of the most common oral problems that are linked to stress.

Gum Inflammation

If you’re going through a stressful time, you are more likely to neglect your oral hygiene. Therefore, you may have an increased risk of developing periodontal disease. Your body generates a hormone called cortisol when you are stressed. This hormone can be generated in the gums, and result in increased inflammation. Our Burnaby dentist, Dr. Sharma, will assess your mouth during your dental examination and treat any gum inflammation you may be experiencing.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a very common side effect of stress. This habit can occur unconsciously, such as when you are sleeping. Unfortunately this is not something you can control as grinding teeth is an involuntary reaction to stress, anger, and fear. Prolonged teeth grinding can lead to damaged teeth, jaw dropping, face pain, tight jaw muscles, and/or consistent headaches. If you’re expediting teeth grinding, we can provide you with a dental guard to help protect your teeth from damage.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can be uncomfortable, and is not good for your dental health. Saliva helps to neutralize acids in your mouth, and washes away food particles and bacteria. Your body can become more prone to acid reflux symptoms when you are undergoing intense stress. The acid can lead to less saliva production, and a dry feeling mouth. You’ll likely notice a bad taste, sticky feeling, and unpleasant odor when your mouth is excessively dry. This side effect is also likely to increase your risk of tooth decay and cavities. One of our dentists will provide you with more information on how to overcome dry mouth when you come in for your appointment.

Visit Our Dental Clinic in Burnaby!

We understand that these unprecedented times can be stressful, but we want to help make sure your smile doesn’t suffer! At Simply Wellness Dental in Burnaby, we’d be happy to check in on your oral health, and to talk to you about our many dental services. Including Invisaligncleaning and prevention, and tooth replacementContact us to book your appointment today!

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