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. The stress of the situation has become apparent in 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, according to  study by the American Psychological Association (APA).
Generally, manifestations of stress go away when the stressing event goes away. That’s where the pandemic comes in. One of the ways that some people manifest stress is by clenching and grinding their teeth. 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. It has been reported recent upticks in all of the following conditions: bruxism, chipped teeth ,cracked teeth, TMJ disorders, decay, periodontal disease ,dry mouth, bad breath, & oral mucosal lesions.
Night guard, commonly associated with treatment for bruxism and TMJ were prescribed by more by dentists in the second half of 2020 than during the same period in 2019.
Stress and disrupted routines likely hurt the chances at restorative sleep, increasing nighttime teeth grinding. Insomnia and restlessness can result in bruxism and TMJ disorder.
It is important to note that not all of these conditions are caused solely by anxiety and tension. For instance, a broken tooth could come as the result of anxiety-induced teeth-grinding, but it could also be caused by an accident or prolonged dental problems.
It’s logical to conclude that current stress is leading to those broken and chipped teeth, as our daily lives feel more typical of what we experienced pre-pandemic, we will see our stress subside and as a result the need for bite guards to treat grinding and clenching subside — but our bodies can take some time to re-acclimate. Going back to the typical is still a change from what has been our weird ‘normal’ over the past year, and any change can generate stress.
Many patients may not realize the correlation between stress and oral health. It is important that patients look out for any signs that can affect their mouth when signs of stress are detected is an important first step toward solving the issue. Consult with your medical and dental professionals for any concerns.
For any questions or concerns, you may call the office of Dr. Kim Rosen, DDS at (661)255-2545.