Two Ways Stress Affects Your Teeth…and How Roswell Dental Care Can Help
Stress shows up in different places. Teeth grinding, TMJ, and a sore mouth to name a few.
No one would blame you for “gritting your teeth” but that combined with other habits has an impact on your dental health.
Two common results of stress on your dental health
The dental connection to stress is not often discussed. But the symptoms it produces reveal its effect.
TMJ
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction) is revealed by recurring jaw pain. It can also be caused by trauma to your mouth, teeth, and gums.
The clenching and contraction of your jaw muscles produces the pain you feel. Increased stress multiplies the jaw-setting response.
TMJ results from the ongoing cycle of clenching and releasing your jaw muscles. It can eventually cause pain when you chew, bite down, and smile.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
It’s that “grit-your-teeth” reflex that’s common when you’re feeling stressed. During sleep is another time when grinding your teeth occurs.
Symptoms of teeth grinding can include:
- Headaches and soreness in your jaws
- Overly sensitive teeth
- Damaged, cracked, or fractured teeth or dental work such as dental crowns or fillings
- Worn tooth edges
Your Roswell family dentist can help. A dental examination can determine the damage TMJ and teeth grinding could be causing to your mouth.
A custom-designed night guard is an effective treatment. This will protect your teeth from damage and wear. Orthodontics can also restore alignment and prevent further tooth wear.
Roswell dental care can help relieve the impact and damage stress is causing your teeth, gums, and mouth. It’s important to mention your symptoms during your next check-up.
Contact our Roswell dental care office about treatment for TMJ and teeth grinding (bruxism).