Without access to basic preventive oral care, the state of oral health for many of us today is deplorable. There are certain basics to oral care that we are well versed with; brushing our teeth after every meal, flossing and using a mouth wash are just a few to mention. But did you know that stress is a major cause that can have your smile all messed up? Now that is something to be stressed about! But not if you follow these basic steps that can help you prevent the stress in your mind from causing damage to your mouth!
As everyday life gets busier, we tend to acquire certain traits that seem to have absolutely no connection to the stress that we face; they are, in fact, the very result of the same. Here are certain signs you could look out for, that may show that the stress in your life is taking a toll on your oral health. Also, find a few basic steps to prevent the damage.
Bruxism:
Bruxism is nothing else but teeth grinding or an act of clenching your teeth! Remember all the times when you have been under a ton of pressure and have released the same by clenching your teeth, during the day or even at night? Or maybe you don’t, but you may bet you sure have done so on several occasions. This is because our minds direct such an action even without us noticing the same as it happens subconsciously. You can prevent damage to your teeth and gums in the process by asking your dentist to give you a night guard or if the problem seems severe you could immediately opt in for a TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) treatment.
Ignoring your oral health:
When under a lot of stress you may get a tendency to ignore your oral hygiene and as a result skip your oral rituals. This may lead to severe oral health related problems that may stress you out even further in the near future. It is important for you to avoid anxiety and indulge in an activity that may help release your stress and more importantly, making a visit to your Dentist at regular intervals a habit, to make sure that he may check on your oral health whether you are passing through a stressful phase or not.
Dental plaque:
A major worry that stress can pose on your mouth is plaque. Paying regular visits to your dentist, eating right, working out and de-stressing and most importantly following a strict oral care regime are the ways out!
Gingivitis:
Stress can also cause bleeding gums due to several factors. This too is preventable. As mentioned above, you could start by observing the fundamental rules of a healthier lifestyle and proper dental care.
