Stress and Oral Health

The current COVID-19 disease outbreak has made many people feel uncertain. Because of this, patients may feel more stressed, which can be a detriment to their oral health. At the Williamsburg Center for Dental Health, we want our patients to be aware of their oral health so that they can minimize future oral health problems. Dr. Stacey Hall and her team are also providing patients with emergency dental care. Patients who have a knocked-out permanent tooth, broken or lost dental restoration, or a tooth abscess can receive treatment in our Williamsburg, VA office. In addition, patients who suffer from stress-related oral health issues can find solutions that work for them.

Oral Health Williamsburg, VA dentist

Dental Problems Tied to Stress

There are an array of oral health issues that have a link to stress, including:

Mouth Sores: Canker or cold sores are often caused by emotional stress. They can also cause pain and feel uncomfortable for patients.

TMJ: Temporomandibular joint disorders can be caused by stress. Clenching and grinding teeth in stressful situations and at night can cause headaches, tooth damage, jaw pain, and other painful symptoms.

Poor Oral Hygiene and Diet: Patients who are stressed may not be giving themselves the time to brush teeth or floss regularly. In addition, a poor diet resulting from stress can cause a lack of vitamins and nutrients. These vitamins and nutrients not only benefit your physical health but your oral health as well.

Gum Disease: Being under stress can affect your immune system and can cause damage to your gums. Periodontitis, or gum disease, is an oral health problem that may cause bleeding gums, gum recession, and tooth loss.

Dry mouth: A lack of saliva in your mouth can cause dry mouth. Saliva has many oral health benefits as it washes away food particles from your teeth and gums.

Call Our Office

Are you noticing jaw problems or mouth sores? Contact our Williamsburg, VA dental office at 757-216-9873. You may also contact us on our website. If you have remaining questions about their treatment options you can ask a member of our friendly staff, who will be happy to assist you.