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Cómo el estrés afecta la salud bucal

How stress affects oral health and what to do about it

Stress is an inevitable part of modern life. Whether it’s caused by work, personal issues, or external circumstances, stress affects both our physical and mental health. However, we rarely consider its impact on oral health. In reality, stress can significantly affect the health of your teeth and gums, and recognizing its effects is key to preventing long-term issues.

In this article, we’ll explore how stress impacts oral health, the most common problems it causes, and steps you can take to mitigate its effects.

How is stress connected to oral health?

When we’re under stress, our body enters a “fight or flight” state that can impact various functions, including oral health. Prolonged or chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making the body less effective at fighting infections and bacteria. This, in turn, can lead to dental and gum problems.

Additionally, stress is often accompanied by harmful habits or behaviors, such as teeth grinding, neglecting oral hygiene, or consuming unhealthy foods and beverages, which further aggravate oral health issues.

Oral health problems caused by stress

Stress can manifest in various ways when it comes to oral health. Some of the most common issues include:

1. Bruxism (Teeth grinding)

Bruxism is one of the most common stress-related conditions. Many people involuntarily clench or grind their teeth, especially at night. This can cause:

  • Tooth wear.
  • Tooth sensitivity.
  • Jaw pain.
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.

2. Gum disease

Chronic stress weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Symptoms include:

  • Swollen, red, or bleeding gums.
  • Gum recession.
  • Persistent bad breath.

3. Dry mouth

Stress can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth or xerostomia. Saliva is essential for keeping the mouth clean and neutralizing acids that cause cavities. A lack of saliva can result in:

  • Tooth decay.
  • Bad breath.
  • Oral infections.

4. Canker sores

Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that can appear on the tongue, cheeks, or lips. While their exact cause isn’t fully understood, stress is commonly linked to their occurrence.

5. Neglecting oral hygiene

High levels of stress can lead to neglecting daily oral hygiene routines like brushing and flossing. This can result in:

  • Plaque and tartar buildup.
  • Increased risk of cavities.
  • Overall deterioration of oral health.

How to prevent and treat stress-related oral health issues

Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent and address oral health problems related to stress. Here are some practical tips:

1. Identify and manage sources of stress

The first step is recognizing the primary causes of your stress. While they may not always be completely eliminated, it’s important to implement strategies to manage them, such as:

  • Relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
  • Physical activities to release tension.
  • Maintaining a work-life balance.

2. Maintain good oral hygiene

Even during stressful periods, don’t neglect your oral care routine. Be sure to:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Use dental floss daily to remove plaque between your teeth.
  • Rinse with mouthwash if necessary.

3. Visit your dentist regularly

Regular dental visits are essential for detecting and addressing problems early. If you experience symptoms like jaw pain, swollen gums, or tooth sensitivity, see a professional as soon as possible.

4. Protect your teeth from bruxism

If you grind your teeth due to stress, your dentist may recommend using a night guard or dental splint. These devices help protect your teeth from wear and reduce jaw pressure.

5. Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet

To prevent dry mouth, drink plenty of water throughout the day. Also, limit sugary foods and carbonated drinks, which can increase the risk of cavities.

6. Consider professional support

If stress is persistent or severe, seek help from a therapist or counselor who can provide tools to manage it. Mental health is closely tied to physical health, including oral health.

How to know if stress is affecting your oral health

Here are some signs that stress may be impacting your oral health:

  • Jaw pain or stiffness, especially in the morning.
  • Swollen or bleeding gums.
  • Sensitive or worn-down teeth.
  • Frequent canker sores.
  • Persistent dry mouth or bad breath.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a dentist to assess the situation and prevent further complications.

Stress not only affects your emotional well-being but also your oral health. It can lead to bruxism, increasing dental wear and, in severe cases, resulting in the need for a root canal to save the affected tooth. Additionally, constant tension in the jaw can cause maxillofacial issues that impact bite alignment and overall mouth functionality.


Adopting a good oral hygiene routine, managing stress in a healthy way, and visiting the dentist regularly at Beamann Dental Clinic in CDMX are key steps to protecting your smile. Remember that taking care of your mental health is also an investment in your oral and overall health.






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