OTTAWA, ONTARIO – Most people are familiar with the effects stress can have on the body. These include headaches, stomach aches, weight gain and sleep problems, but many do not understand that it can also affect oral health, said Ottawa, ON teeth bleaching expert Dr. Pamela Li.

\”There is ever-growing proof to support this theory, but a remarkable research was a study directed by The Journal of Periodontology in 2007,\” says dental veneers provider Li. \”The results revealed that stress can make people neglect their oral hygiene, particularly routines such as brushing, flossing and getting their teeth cleaned on a regular basis. By disregarding the most essential hygiene procedures, people are leaving themselves open tooth decay, gum disease and lots of other problems.\”

Stress is known to directly affect oral health, and though some problems are treatable, others may have long-term, irreparable results.

Canker Sores: small ulcers that become apparent on the inside of the mouth. They aren\’t contagious and are normally gone within 10 days. When the sores appear in the mouth, it\’s more difficult to keep teeth clean due to tenderness; most professionals recommend washing the mouth with warm water and salt or using a topical anesthetic to ease the pain. There are also products that don\’t require prescription that may provide relief for a little while. Canker sores may happen because of sodium lauryl sulfate, a regular foaming agent in toothpaste, so people should choose toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate such as Biotene, says Li, a dentures expert.

Cold Sores: Also known as fever blisters, they become visible on or around the lips. They are greatly contagious and need be treated with prescription antiviral drugs.

Teeth Clenching or Grinding: Frequently referred to as bruxism, a situation where people grind or clinch their teeth at night or all through the day. People who suffer from this disorder can experience pain, an irregular wearing down of the teeth, have limited range of motion, tooth sensitivity, and problems with the temporomandibular joint. Bruxism is usually treated with a mouth guard and stress easing therapy.

Dry Mouth: Those who suffer from stress and anxiety breathe differently, which leads to lack of saliva that is needed to keep the mouth damp. Saliva helps digest food, protect teeth from decay, inhibit infection by monitoring bacteria in the mouth and it permits chewing and swallowing. Common treatments comprise of practicing breathing methods and/or meditation and yoga.

Burning Mouth: A tireless burning feeling in or around the mouth. The burning can be felt on the uppermost part of the tongue, lips or the part of the hard palate behind the upper front teeth. This condition is frequently treated with anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants.

Gum Disease: Stress is also known to affect the immune system, says Li .This leaves patients more inclined to get infections and the risk of gum disease critically increases. Stress also has the ability to increase the total amount of dental plaque in the mouth, which can cause bleeding gums, gingivitis or bad breath.

\”Start with a well-balanced, healthy diet and sleep at least eight hours per night,\” says Li, a cosmetic dentist. Ottawa, ON dental expert Li advises patients to limit intake of caffeine, alcohol and tobacco. She also believes people should take breaks during work and find activities that help them cope with stress, for example, exercising or listening to music. Li encourages people to remember brushing and flossing so they won\’t ruin their smile.

About Dr. Pamela Li

Ottawa, ON dentist Dr. Pamela Li provides an array of dental services that meet your needs all in one convenient location. Dr. Li also treats patients for headaches and TMJ problems.

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