Are You Stressed? Your Dentist Can Tell.

You know that too much stress can lead to a decline in your overall health, but severe stress can also cause problems in your teeth, jaw, mouth, and gums. Many dentists can detect signs of stress during a routine examination because of the following symptoms a patient presents:

Canker Sores

Canker sores are small spots with a white or gray base and red borders. They generally occur inside the mouth and are not contagious. Experts are unsure about the exact cause of these mouth sores but they are often triggered by trauma (biting your cheek, brushing too hard and too frequently) and stress.

Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching

Stress and anxiety are some of the leading causes of teeth clenching and grinding. Nervous tension, anger and frustration can cause people to clench and grind their teeth without even realizing it. Therefore, it is important for you to keep an eye out for the following signs: tips of the teeth appearing flat, tooth enamel that is rubbed off causing extreme sensitivity, and tongue indentations.

If you experience any of these symptoms, set up an appointment with your Longmeadow dentist to seek treatment. Left untreated, habitual jaw clenching can lead to problems with a joint known as TMJ (temporomandibular joint) and the associated muscles used in moving the jaw and neck.

Poor Oral Health Habits

Living with extreme stress can cause people to skip brushing and flossing, and can lead to poor eating habits. If you do not maintain proper oral hygiene habits, you increase your chances of developing cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.

If you have any questions or concerns about stress and how it may be affecting your oral health, make an appointment with your Longmeadow dentist today.