|
STRESS AND DENTISTRY
Stress is such a major theme in our lives that stress management
has become an industry. We often see the effect of stress on teeth.
The stress can be external. Physical or psychological stress can
have detrimental results on teeth and oral structures. Stress can
be internal. Dental disorders in and of themselves can result in
stress to individual teeth.
Bruxism is a technical term in dentistry and refers to grinding
teeth or clenching jaws. We all do this from time to time, but
major problems ensue when it becomes a habit. The habit is common
in adults and affects about 15% of children. It often occurs during
sleep. Your spouse may be the first to complain. Bruxism can result
from anxiety or other psychological stress, sleep disorders, or
from an abnormal bite, missing teeth or teeth that could benefit
from orthodontic treatment.
When we see fractured teeth that should otherwise be healthy,
teeth that are worn, or certain instances of gum damage or loose
teeth…or when you complain of facial pain or TMJ (temporomandibular
joint) disorders, we are aware that your teeth may be trying to
alert you to reduce the stress you are experiencing.
We evaluate the “dental” causes of stress on your
teeth. We might recommend any of a number of treatment alternatives:
- Occlusal adjustments of minor problems with bite. This treatment
involves adjusting the bite so that the patient’s teeth
fit together better. However, it is limited to those cases where
the maladjustment is slight.
- Orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic treatment is much more
than a cosmetic issue. Straight teeth with correct and stable
form of the dental arches are cosmetically pleasing. Functionally,
they are better equipped to resist stress, wear, cavities and
gum disease for a lifetime of normal use.
- Occlusal guards, mouth guards, bite guards, occlusal appliances.
Such guards may be appropriate when there is evidence of bruxism
without a “dental” cause. In these cases, the patient
may benefit from stress management therapies or referral to his
medical care provider for further evaluation.
Remember that regular six-month dental check-ups will aid in
early detection of stress-related dental problems.
<< return to top of page
|
