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Stress can have a negative effect on your entire body. When your body is under stress, cortisol is released to help the body deal with the situation at hand. This makes important functions like digestion and immunity take a backseat in favor of dealing with whatever is causing stress. The result is often unpleasant symptoms such as bad breath, changes in appetite or sleep habits, and even dry mouth.

How Stress Affects Oral Health

When stress becomes too much to handle, it affects more than just your mind – it also affects the health of your body and your mouth. Here’s how it can impact your smile.

• Your teeth and gums may get more sensitive when you’re stressed, which could cause you to have an increased chance of developing gum disease or cavities. These oral issues may eventually cause tooth loss.
• When you’re anxious or worried, you may grind your teeth more than usual. This can cause them to wear down faster, which could cause you further problems down the road.
• The hormones that occur in your body as a result of stress can also impact your oral health. For example, they can increase your risk of dry mouth, which can make it more difficult to talk and eat normally. It can also put you at a higher risk of developing gum disease.
• In addition to causing hormonal imbalances, stress can also lead to an increase in your blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.
• When you’re feeling stressed, you may be more likely to snack on unhealthy foods such as sweets and alcohol, which can lead to weight gain and poor nutrition, which in turn can put you at risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

If you’re experiencing increased levels of stress, try implementing stress management techniques into your daily life, such as exercising, meditating, or even talking to someone about what’s bothering you. You may also want to visit our dentist in Salem, OR, at Cascade Dental Group LLC for an exam to ensure that your smile is healthy.

By following a few simple steps, you can help protect your oral health and improve your quality of life. Don’t neglect the oral health needs of your family! Take preventative measures by scheduling an appointment with a dentist today.

If you’ve recently experienced a life-changing event and you’re worried about how your life might be changing your oral health, talk to our dentist in 97302 about what you can do to protect your smile. 

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups During Periods of High Stress

When stress starts to pile up, it's easy to let self-care slip through the cracks. But did you know that neglecting your oral health during stressful times can have serious consequences? Stress can manifest in various ways, one of which is by affecting your teeth and gums.

Regular dental check-ups are crucial, especially when stress levels are high. During periods of elevated stress, our bodies become more susceptible to inflammation and infection, making oral health issues more likely to arise. By staying on top of your dental appointments, you can catch any problems early on and prevent them from escalating.

Our dentist in Salem, OR, not only cleans your teeth but also assesses the overall health of your mouth. They can identify signs of stress-related conditions like bruxism (teeth grinding) or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Moreover, a visit to the dentist in 97302 provides an opportunity for professional advice on managing oral hygiene amidst stress.

Taking care of your mental well-being goes hand in hand with looking after your oral health. So next time life gets overwhelming, remember that prioritizing regular dental check-ups is a vital aspect of maintaining overall wellness.

If you want to learn more about us, feel free to contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Salem, OR. Our doctors and team are always here to help your smile stay healthy!