Stress is more than just a burden. Over 1 in 4 Americans claim it shuts down their ability to function most days, according to one report. But the dangers go beyond loss of productivity. Stress is linked to headaches, depression, dementia, high blood pressure, heart issues and more. It can even harm your oral and vision health.
The good news is stress can be manageable with the right planning and support. But first, let’s talk about how stress can affect your oral and vision health.
Impact on oral and vision health
- Teeth grinding or clenching, also called bruxism, can be caused by stress. Bruxism may lead to headaches, jaw and tooth pain and worn down, chipped or cracked teeth.
- Canker sores can also be caused by stress. These white or yellow sores usually form on the tongue cheeks or lips and can be quite painful.
- Gum disease is also more common in people who are stressed. This is an infection of the gums and bones that support the teeth, causing inflammation in the mouth and body. Serious gum disease can result in loose or lost teeth.
- Eye strain and headaches may be a reaction to the fight or flight response your body initiates when it is stressed, worried or fearful. Chronic stress can also put you at risk for optic nerve damage or glaucoma.
In addition, stress can lead to behaviors that have a negative influence on your health—including tobacco and alcohol use, as well as poor eating habits.
How to reduce stress
While you can’t get rid of stress completely, your mind, body, teeth and eyes can benefit from these self-care strategies and help keep you smiling:
- Identify your stress triggers: Learn more about what causes your stress. Is it your daily routine, sudden changes in your life or trauma? You may be able to control the situation or at least change your reaction to the stressors.
- Ask for support from friends and family: Those closest to you can help reduce your stress by acting as a sounding board or by assisting you with your tasks. Staying connected will also help distract you.
- Find relaxing activities: Do whatever helps you relax — get a massage, listen to music, watch a comedy or practice yoga. You might even consider a day trip to one of Arizona’s Instagram-worthy spots to relax and take a break from your routine.
- Exercise regularly and get outside: Arizona is the perfect place to get outside to bike, walk, participate in sports, swim, jog or garden! Exercise and nature have similar benefits. They both improve your sense of well-being, boost your mood and relieve stress by releasing “feel good” endorphins.
- Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet that prioritizes smile-friendly fruits, vegetables, dairy products, protein and whole grains will make you feel better and improve your oral health. Try one of our mouth-healthy recipes!
- Get enough sleep: Sleep allows your body and brain to recharge, which influences your mood, energy level and concentration.
- Maintain a healthy routine: Keep up with your daily oral health routine of brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day. Also, don’t forget to schedule regular preventive oral and vision exams with an in-network provider, keeping larger medical conditions from being a source of stress.
If self-care doesn’t do enough to relieve your stress, contact your physician or a professional therapist to help you cope.
