Smile Makers Dental Clinic
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Stress and Oral Health

 
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  Mental stress can affect our bodies. For some, the effects of constant stress, anxiety or depression can affect oral health, in several ways.  

 

     
  Bruxism  
  This refers to forceful grinding or clenching of the teeth, often unconsciously, during the day or at night during sleep. Many people who brux their teeth may not be aware that they are doing so. However, those who sleep with them may be able to hear their grinding. The exact cause of bruxism is uncertain but mental stress is considered one of the factors contributing to this habit.

Unconscious clenching or grinding can lead to problems like
 
 
      
Cracked teeth
      

Teeth sensitivity due to wear of the teeth

      
Headaches, or tiredness of the jaws on waking
      
Flattened or chipped appearance of the teeth
 
     
 
 
 


 
 

As there may be many causes for bruxism , a holistic approach is needed to treat this condition. Some people may find that wearing an occlusal splints or night guard may help to reduce the clenching and consequent wear on the teeth.

 
     
  Dry Mouth  
  Dryness of the mouth can be caused by stress. More often, it may be caused by medications taken to treat stress, anxiety or depression. Reduction of saliva in the mouth can have many consequences such as :  
 
      Reduced taste and hence reduced appetite
     

Increased tooth decay because of the lack of protection offered by saliva

       Difficulty in wearing dentures because of the lack of lubrication offered by saliva
      Increased plaque accumulation and consequent increased gum disease
      Greater wear of the teeth and subsequent sensitivity
 
     
  Reduced Resistance and Poor Hygiene  
 

Even periods of exam stress have been found to be associated with increased infections of the mouth -- for example around impacted or emerging wisdom teeth.
People under stress are less likely to eat well, sleep well or be interested in daily hygiene practices; hence their general resistance to infections fall. The mouth is a place where infections can easily occur.

 
     
 

Regular dental checkups help to detect developing problems
Early treatment can Save your Smile.

 
 


The Best Expression is a Bright, Healthy Smile!


 

Smile Makers Dental Clinic   Address : #09-26 Novena Medical Center, 10 Sinaran Drive, Singapore 307506  Tel: 6 39 727 39  

E-mail: info@smilemakers.com.sg

Updated November 2008 Copyright © Smile Makers Dental Clinic Pte Ltd
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