With chronic stress, the overall immune system is damaged and a cascade triggers a disruption in hormone levels and protective barriers. Against the background of this, changes also occur in the oral cavity, a dentist-therapist, Ph.D., periodontist at the SM-Dentistry clinic, told socialbites.ca. Elena Martynova.
So, according to him, stress causes thyroid and pancreatic hormones to deteriorate. Mineral metabolism is damaged, insulin levels increase.
“For teeth, this is fraught with a decrease in the strength of the enamel, disruption of microcirculation in the gum vessels and bone tissue. Constantly increasing cortisol levels lead to exacerbation of inflammatory processes in periodontal tissues,” said the doctor.
She also noticed that stress eating is a familiar pattern for many people. Sweet, flour, carbonated and alcoholic drinks are a combination that increases the acid level and the active growth of bacteria in the oral cavity. At the same time, regular oral hygiene often takes a backseat in such stressful situations. In addition, in a stressful situation, a person experiences a decrease in the amount of saliva as well as a decrease in the release of protective factors in the salivary gland cells, and the proliferation of beneficial bacteria is suppressed. Dentist Martynova added that therefore provocation of herpetic infection and oral candidiasis is possible.
“Conclusion; Inflammation and bleeding in the gums, multiple cavities, stomatitis, dry mouth, pain, burning while talking and eating, and impaired taste sensitivity. “Tranquilizers and antidepressants taken during therapy also reduce saliva production,” he said.
Against the background of stress, bad habits can become more active, for example, the habit of constantly licking, biting lips or gnawing objects (pencils, nails, pencils). This condition causes permanent damage to the lips, gums and tooth enamel. And chronic injury can develop into a precancerous condition over time. According to him, another indicator of long-term stress and increased muscle tone is pain in the joints and jaws, clicking, crunching, teeth grinding and headaches in the morning. In the future, this will lead to pathological wear, increased mobility and displacement of teeth. As a result, overload inevitably leads to bone loss and tooth extraction.
“We can’t avoid stress, but we can reduce the risk of tooth and gum disease and prevent malocclusion. Dental hygiene at home is mandatory: you need to brush your teeth twice a day, use an irrigator, toothbrush, dental floss and interdental brushes. “Even if nothing hurts, visit your dentist every six months for professional hygiene and examination,” the doctor concluded.
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Source: Gazeta
Barbara Dickson is a seasoned writer for “Social Bites”. She keeps readers informed on the latest news and trends, providing in-depth coverage and analysis on a variety of topics.