{"id":63,"date":"2022-12-06T22:55:00","date_gmt":"2022-12-06T22:55:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.longfamilydentalmidlothian.com\/blog\/?p=63"},"modified":"2023-02-08T22:57:08","modified_gmt":"2023-02-08T22:57:08","slug":"chronic-stress-your-smile-what-it-means","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.longfamilydentalmidlothian.com\/blog\/2022\/12\/06\/chronic-stress-your-smile-what-it-means\/","title":{"rendered":"Chronic Stress & Your Smile: What It Means"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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You may not realize that there is a distinct connection between your oral and overall health. The mouth and body are closely connected, so when problems arise in one area, you can expect them to manifest in the other. This is why it\u2019s not uncommon to ask, \u201cCan chronic stress impact your oral health<\/a>?\u201d The answer is yes, it can. And to better explain how this is possible, a dentist is here to explain the link and what you can do.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How Are Stress and Oral Health Linked?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It is believed that when your body produces cortisol, which forms when you\u2019re feeling anxious, it increases your risk for gum disease. The reason is that chronic stress, depression, and anxiety negatively affect your immune system. As a result, bacteria inside the mouth are given an open opportunity to attack the soft oral tissues. When your body cannot fight off infection because of stress, you become a target for worsening dental health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gum disease isn\u2019t the only problem that can arise as a result of stress, though. Additional issues such as cold sores, canker sores, and teeth grinding can occur, resulting in worn tooth enamel and unsightly blisters or ulcers on the exterior and interior of your mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ways to Reduce Stress and Improve Oral Health<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Most people don\u2019t want to be under stress. That is why you must find ways to reduce it and maintain a healthier approach to daily life. Some helpful ways to minimize the anxiety and depression you may be experiencing include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n