How Stress Can Affect Your Smile | Snohomish Dentist

Stress is a feeling few can say they’ve never felt. As life progresses on, it seems we add more stressors into our life. The unfortunate thing is, it is very difficult to overcome the sense of dread that comes with stress, and if left untreated, can lead to further health issues. But did you know that too much stress can also be affecting your mouth, teeth, gums as well? Mouth sores. While we aren’t sure of the causes of canker sores, many experts have attributed them to a weakened immune system, bacteria, or viruses. The good thing is, they aren’t contagious. Cold sores or fever blisters, on the other hand, are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are contagious. Times of emotional stress can trigger an outbreak, but they also can happen with a fever, sunburn, or a skin abrasion. Treatment for both is available, including over-the-counter remedies and prescription antiviral drugs.

Teeth grinding. Beyond the typical headaches, one of the natural outcomes of stress is clenching and/or grinding of your teeth. While it can happen at any time of the day, it typically happens at night, so many don’t even know it’s happening. If left untreated, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder can occur by grinding your teeth, so a night guard may be recommended.

Gum disease. Stress can cause an increase in dental plaque, even when the high stress levels are short-term. Long-term stress can boost your risk of bleeding gums, or gingivitis, which can progress to serious gum disease. It is important that you keep up your daily dental routines in order to offset these symptoms from progressing.

If you would like more information about the affects of stress on your smile, call Dr. Haines in Snohomish, WA at 360-568-8577 or visit www.tedhainesdds.com.

Dr. Haines proudly serves Snohomish, Monroe, Lake Stevens, Everett, Mill Creek, Woodinville, and surrounding areas.