Stress: Taking a Bite of Patients’ Dental Health
For many, 2020 ushered in feelings of isolation and fear, as well as new concerns about financial stability, safety, family and how to juggle all of it from home. For some dentists, the stress of the situation has become apparent in their patients’ oral health. As of March, over 70% of dentists surveyed by the American Dental Association (ADA) reported an increase in patients experiencing teeth grinding and clenching since before the pandemic. That number is up nearly 10% from fall of 2020. In fact, more than 80% of Americans have reported emotions associated with prolonged stress.
Stress-related Conditions
Multiple studies have shown that emotions can play a significant role in periodontal disease. Thanks to an increase in inflammation from stress-induced conditions, the gums can become a hotbed for bacteria, leading to gingivitis. According to the ADA, dentists reported recent upticks in all of the following conditions:
- Bruxism
- Chipped Teeth
- Cracked Teeth
- TMJ Symptoms
- Cavities
- Periodontal Disease
- Dry Mouth
- Bad Breath
- Oral Sores
Sleep and Ergonomics
During the mad rush to convert homes to offices in the early days of the pandemic, couches and stools took the place of lumbar-supported work chairs. Ergonomic workspaces became less of a priority than merely having a functioning workspace and the resulting poor posture may also be to blame for some TMJ issues.
Likewise, stress and disrupted routines likely hurt the chances at restorative sleep, increasing nighttime teeth grinding. Insomnia and restlessness can result in bruxism and TMJ.
Mask Mouth
The facemask has been a staple of pandemic life, but can come with uncomfortable byproducts: bad breath, dry mouth, gingivitis and tooth decay.
Dental professionals attribute mask mouth to dehydration and mouth breathing when wearing a face covering. Thorough brushing and more regular hydration can help combat these symptoms. On the upside, masks can sometimes help wearers identify their own bad breath which may stem from more serious problems.
Not all of these conditions are caused solely by anxiety and tension, but many people do not realize the correlation between stress and oral health. Mental health can affect our mouths. When signs of stress are detected, it is important to recognize ways of managing that stress.
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